Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American Israeli soldier held hostage by Hamas since October 7, 2023, was released on Monday in what the armed group called a goodwill gesture toward the Trump administration. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the Red Cross had taken custody of Alexander in southern Gaza’s Khan Yunis and was transferring him to Israeli forces stationed in the area.
The release comes after weeks of diplomatic contacts and mounting pressure on Hamas to free remaining captives. According to Israeli officials, 58 hostages are still believed to be in captivity, with 23 thought to be alive. Alexander is the first hostage released since the collapse of an eight-week ceasefire in March. In recent weeks, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza intensified, displacing thousands and worsening the humanitarian crisis. Israel says its campaign is intended to force Hamas to accept ceasefire terms favorable to Jerusalem.
Hamas said the release was intended to signal openness to renewed negotiations. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will reportedly dispatch a delegation to hostage talks in Doha. Netanyahu announced the plan for a delegation to Doha after meeting with US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and US Ambassador Mike Huckabee.
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US special envoy Adam Boehler, speaking shortly after the announcement, said he would not rest until all hostages are home.
President Trump also welcomed the release and expressed hope that it would lead to more breakthroughs. Hamas released Alexander without fanfare or a public ceremony.
At Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, demonstrators cheered following news that Alexander had been transferred to the Red Cross.
Demonstrators at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv cheer following news that Edan Alexander has been transferred to the Red Cross, May 12, 2025. (The Hostages and Missing Families Forum)
In Israel, Alexander’s family anxiously awaited his return. His mother, Yael, was seen arriving at the Reim military base, where he is expected to undergo initial medical checks. His grandmother, Varda Ben Baruch, told reporters she had barely slept and had prepared his favorite foods in anticipation of his arrival.
Alexander was taken from his post during Hamas’ cross-border assault, which triggered the current war. He had been held in Gaza for over 19 months.