An American-Israeli soldier held hostage in Gaza for over 19 months has been released by Hamas in what the group described as a “gesture of goodwill” toward the Trump administration.
The move comes just ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East during his second term.
Edan Alexander, who was captured during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, cross-border attack on Israel, was handed over Monday. Israeli officials confirmed the transfer, though no specific details were provided.
Television footage showed his mother, Yael Alexander, arriving at Reim military base, where he was expected to be reunited with family. His grandmother, Varda Ben Baruch, expressed joy and relief, having baked his favorite dishes for his return.
The release marks the first since Israel resumed heavy bombardment of Gaza in March following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. It also comes amid growing international pressure to end the conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian enclave.
President Trump welcomed the release, calling it “a step taken in good faith,” and voiced hope that it could signal the beginning of the end of the conflict. Trump’s administration credited Qatar and Egypt for brokering the release and pledged to push for the return of the remaining 58 hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, has authorized a negotiating team to head to Doha, underlining that talks would continue “under fire.”
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action, warning: “Time is running out.”
