Trump says last living American hostage Edan Alexander will be released by Hamas: 'Coming home'

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 12:09 am

**Trump Announces Release of Last Living American Hostage by Hamas**

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that Hamas will release Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage held in Gaza. Alexander, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, has been held captive since the October 7th Hamas attack on southern Israel. Trump shared the news on his social media platform, Truth Social, expressing gratitude to those involved in facilitating the release and hoping it signals a step towards ending the ongoing conflict.

Hamas confirmed its intention to release Alexander, stating it had been in contact with the U.S. administration in recent days. The group cited the release as part of steps towards a ceasefire, opening border crossings, and allowing aid into Gaza. The exact timing of Alexander's release remains unclear.

Alexander, who moved to Israel to serve in the IDF's Golani Brigade, was kidnapped on October 7th. He is now 21 years old, having spent two birthdays in captivity. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters welcomed the news and urged for a comprehensive agreement to secure the freedom of all remaining hostages. Families of the remaining hostages, including five Americans, have urged Trump to prioritize their release, using both economic and diplomatic pressure. Fifty members of Congress also sent a letter to Trump on May 9th urging him to prioritize getting the remaining hostages out.

BNN's Perspective: While the release of Edan Alexander is undoubtedly welcome news, it's crucial to remember the many other hostages still held and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This development should be seen as a starting point for broader negotiations aimed at a lasting peace and the return of all hostages, both living and deceased. The focus must remain on alleviating the suffering of all affected by this conflict.

Keywords:
Edan Alexander, Hamas, hostage release, Donald Trump, Gaza, October 7th, Israel, American hostage, ceasefire, hostages, conflict, U.S.-Israeli citizen, IDF, Golani Brigade, humanitarian crisis, hostages and missing families forum, peace negotiations

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