Hamas Agrees to Release U.S. Hostage Edan Alexander After 19 Months

• May 12, 2025

Edan Alexander, a 20-year-old Israeli-American soldier and the last known U.S. citizen held by Hamas, will be released after more than 19 months in captivity, according to a statement from Hamas on Sunday.

Alexander, who was abducted during Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has been held in Gaza since. His release is part of mediation efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire, reopening border crossings into Gaza, and allowing humanitarian aid into the territory. Hamas did not specify when Alexander would be freed, but two officials told the Associated Press they expect it within 48 hours.

Israel confirmed it was informed by the United States about the pending release. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office described the move as “a gesture to the Americans” and said it could lead to renewed talks for the release of all remaining hostages, based on a previously negotiated plan known as the Witkoff outline.

“The negotiations will continue under fire with a commitment to achieve all war goals,” Netanyahu’s office said. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff also confirmed Hamas’ agreement to release Alexander.

Alexander, originally from New Jersey, was serving in the Israeli military when he was captured from his base near Gaza. He was one of about 250 people taken hostage that day, while 1,200 others were killed. His family, including his mother Yael and father Adi, have been actively pushing for his release, even meeting with U.S. leaders like former President Joe Biden and President Trump.

Trump welcomed the news, calling it a "step taken in good faith" and expressed hope for the release of all hostages. He praised mediators Qatar and Egypt for their roles in the negotiations.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum also issued a statement supporting the Alexander family. “If confirmed, Edan’s release must be the beginning of a broader deal to free all remaining hostages,” they said, urging leaders to complete the mission.

In previous hostage exchanges, some freed captives reported seeing Alexander in captivity, noting his efforts to keep others calm. His grandmother, Varda Ben Baruch, shared with reporters that he remained strong and reassured fellow hostages of their eventual release.

So far, fewer than 50 living hostages have been freed since November 2023, when a temporary ceasefire allowed an exchange of prisoners. Despite ongoing pleas from families, Israel resumed its offensive in Gaza after talks stalled in March 2024. The conflict has since continued, with Palestinian officials reporting over 52,000 deaths in Gaza.

Edan Alexander’s expected release brings renewed hope for the families of remaining hostages and could mark a turning point in ongoing efforts to secure their freedom.