Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old U.S.-Israeli soldier abducted during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, was released on Monday after over 19 months in captivity. The International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated his transfer from Gaza to Israeli forces, and a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) showed his emotional reunion with his family. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the government would assist in his reintegration and reaffirmed its commitment to securing the return of all hostages.
Hamas stated that Alexander’s release was unconditional and aimed at encouraging progress toward a ceasefire, a prisoner exchange, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The release followed days of dialogue with U.S. officials, and former President Donald Trump, en route to the Middle East, praised the move as a “step taken in good faith.” His envoy Steve Witkoff had arrived in the region shortly before the transfer. While Israel clarified that it had not agreed to any ceasefire, it had allowed a safe corridor to enable Alexander’s release.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. Aid organizations warn of imminent famine, with over half a million people at risk of starvation amid continued military operations and restricted aid access. Israeli airstrikes on a school-turned-shelter in Jabaliya killed 16 people, including women and children, further escalating concerns about the conflict’s toll on civilians.
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