American-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander Freed After 584 Days

• May 13, 2025

American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander has finally returned to Israel after spending 584 days in Hamas captivity. His release was part of a US-brokered deal and marks a significant development amid ongoing tensions in the region. Alexander, a former IDF conscript, crossed the border back into Israeli territory and was received at a facility in southern Israel, where his mother, Yael Alexander, awaited him.

Trump’s envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Buehler, was also present, as confirmed by Israel's Channel 14. US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff played a key role in negotiating Alexander’s release and was with Alexander’s parents in Israel during this critical moment. Several US sources have credited him for successfully brokering the deal.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued an official statement confirming that personnel from the IDF Personnel Directorate and medical teams were accompanying Alexander upon his return. "He will undergo an initial medical assessment and be reunited with his family," the IDF said on its Telegram account. The statement added that IDF representatives are also with the rest of Alexander’s family at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, keeping them updated on his condition.

Earlier in the day, reports indicated that Witkoff had traveled to Israel for scheduled talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The situation involving Alexander was a top priority during these discussions. Sources revealed that Hamas agreed to the release following strong diplomatic pressure from the Trump administration.

A senior Israeli official suggested the timing of Alexander’s release was strategic. According to the official, Hamas may have coordinated the release to coincide with Trump's visit to the region, possibly aiming to disrupt Israel’s planned Gideon Chariots military operation. This move was seen as Hamas playing its "only card" to influence events on the ground.

Following Alexander’s safe return, the Chief of the General Staff at the Hostages and Missing Persons Headquarters expressed mixed emotions. "We are emotional and grateful for the return of Edan, an IDF soldier, home. That said, we do not forget our commitment to bring back the 58 hostages still held by Hamas—they remain constantly in our thoughts. We will continue to use all means at our disposal to bring them home," he said.