(The Center Square) – Edan Alexander, New Jersey high school graduate of three years ago and last remaining American hostage of Hamas, on Monday was freed by the militant group and seen with masked fighters and a Red Cross official.
His transfer facilitated by the United States under the direction of President Donald Trump through mediation with Qatar and Egypt included Israel granting him passage to Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel credited release to pressure from his country’s armed forces in Gaza and the Trump administration diplomacy.
Hamas, according to reports, made the deal at risk of famine and as goodwill to Trump. There was no immediate word from the White House of help for hunger. Netanyahu affirmed no ceasefire is imminent and his country’s offensive would resume.
Fifty-nine hostages remain, all taken on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel.
More than 1,200 were killed in the initial attack, including 31 Americans. There were 251 taken hostage. Earlier this spring, the number of Palestinians dead climbed above 50,000.
The invasion by Hamas and other Palestinian groups into Israeli territory were the first since 1948.
Alexander is a graduate of Tenafly High School in Tenafly, N.J. Reports from his native state said his mother, Yael, was expected to be with U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler at a military base in Israel.
On social media, Trump had written Sunday, “This was a step taken in good faith toward the United States and the efforts of the mediators – Qatar and Egypt – to put an end to this very brutal war and return all living hostages and remains to their loved ones.”
During his campaign for a second term, Trump repeatedly said “bringing home the hostages” was among the first things he would due. He recently observed a 100th day in office, and continued to affirm foreign policy of strength through peace.
