Edan Alexander Released After 584 Days: Trump's Visit to the Region Coincides with Hostage's Freedom
Edan Alexander, last living American hostage, released by Hamas amid strained ceasefire talks, sparking calls for further negotiations on remaining held hostages.
Photos from the release of an Israeli-American hostage
Associated Press
Hamas Releases Last Living US Hostage
TIME Magazine
Overview
Edan Alexander, the last American hostage held by Hamas, was released on May 12, 2025, after 584 days of captivity, coinciding with Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the region. His return, celebrated by both families and supporters, was perceived as a goodwill gesture aimed at renewing ceasefire discussions. While 58 hostages remain in captivity, Trump called for continued negotiations, emphasizing the urgency of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where aid has been severely restricted. Israel plans to intensify military operations despite calls for a ceasefire, complicating further negotiations on hostages and humanitarian assistance.
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Analysis
- Hamas has released Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage, viewed as a goodwill gesture aimed at reviving ceasefire negotiations and resuming humanitarian aid in Gaza.
- Negotiations involving Hamas and U.S. intermediaries are ongoing, with hopes that Alexander's release could pave the way for broader discussions about ending the conflict and addressing the humanitarian crisis.
- The Israeli government is prioritizing military operations to secure the release of remaining hostages while acknowledging the essential need for humanitarian access in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict.
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NBC News·2M·FAQ
Edan Alexander was taken by Hamas during their assault on October 7, 2023, from his military base near the Gaza border. He was a 19-year-old Israeli-American soldier at the time.
Hamas released Edan Alexander as a goodwill gesture aimed at establishing a lasting ceasefire, reopening border crossings into Gaza, and resuming humanitarian aid deliveries.
Edan Alexander's release is seen as a step towards renewed ceasefire discussions. However, challenges remain, including the continued captivity of other hostages and the restricted humanitarian aid in Gaza.
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