US-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander Freed from Captivity

By Israel News Network

After 584 long days in Hamas captivity, IDF Lone Soldier and dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander is free at last.

The young Golani soldier arrived at the Re’im military base around 8 PM tonight (Monday May 12), greeted by his emotional mother Yael and father Adi.

“This is a very emotional moment – Aidan Alexander has returned home. We embrace him, and we embrace his family,” said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“Together with all branches of the security establishment, the government will support his reintegration,” Netanyahu’s office said.

“The State of Israel remains committed to the return of all hostages. We will continue to act tirelessly until every one of them is brought home.”

The PMO also quoted Psalms 31:16: “Deliver me from the hand of my enemies and from those who pursue me.”

The IDF saluted his return, asking for privacy for Edan and his family.

US Hostage Envoy Adam Boehler, White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Israeli Coordinator of Prisoners of War and Missing Persons Brig. Gen. (res.) Gal Hirsch were also present to welcome him.

Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed his joy and thanked the US government for their assistance, reiterating the commitment to bring all hostages home.

Edan was picked up by Red Cross personnel in southern Gaza and transferred to IDF special forces and Shin Bet agents.

An Al Jazeera photo broadcast by Channel N12 News showed Edan standing, with reports indicating he is in “okay” condition. Notably, Hamas did not hold a public release ceremony this time.

“I am relieved that American Edan Alexander finally gets to come home,” US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee wrote on social media.

“As POTUS said, we hope that this long-overdue release marks the beginning of the end to this terrible war. Hamas alone is responsible for the continued death and suffering. We demand the immediate release of all remaining hostages.”