Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage in Gaza, was released by Hamas on Monday, marking the end of an 18-month captivity that began following the group’s October 7 attack.
Hamas announced on Sunday evening that it had agreed to release the 21-year-old Alexander after days of negotiations with the United States.
The move is seen as part of broader efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and restore humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The militant group handed Alexander over to the Red Cross on Monday, and he was swiftly transported back to Israel.
Upon arrival, Alexander underwent a medical evaluation at an Israeli military base and reunited with his family.
According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, Alexander was able to speak with his mother, Yael, over the phone following his release.
Clad in a black Adidas t-shirt and a baseball cap, Alexander was photographed during his handover, moments before being driven from Khan Younis to Israel.
Footage from his family in Tel Aviv showed their celebration with each update on his return.
Alexander’s release coincided with US President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East tour, which will include visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
A native of New Jersey, Alexander was serving in the Israeli military along the Gaza border when he was captured by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
In a March interview with CNN, his mother described him as “full of life, very funny, very friendly.”
Despite his release, 58 hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 20 believed to still be alive.
Among the deceased hostages are four American citizens, including Gadi Haggai and Judi Weinstein Haggai, as well as soldiers Itay Chen and Omer Neutra.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude on Monday, calling Alexander’s release “an emotional moment.”
He also credited President Trump for securing the release and reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s goals in Gaza.
“This success is a result of our military efforts combined with the diplomatic pressure exerted by President Trump,” Netanyahu said.
“I spoke with him today, and he assured me of his unwavering commitment to Israel and our shared goal of freeing all hostages and defeating Hamas.”