What the release of the last American hostage in Gaza means

Hamas has handed over Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage in Gaza, to the Red Cross in preparation for his transfer to Israel, as confirmed by both the militant group and Israeli officials.

His mother speaking earlier to CNN , said “I’m a mom , I just want to hold him again and to say ‘Edan you’re safe , you’re home “

The 21-year-old, originally from New Jersey and serving in the Israeli military, was taken captive during the October 7, 2023, attack. His release follows extensive negotiations between the U.S. and Hamas, part of broader efforts to establish a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The timing of Alexander’s freedom coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East tour, which will include visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. His family has expressed that the timing, occurring on Mother’s Day, is a remarkable gift and has conveyed their gratitude to Trump, envoy Steve Witkoff, and the U.S. administration.

Yael Alexander, the mother of Edan, traveled to Israel on Sunday night to be reunited with her son. 

A photo released by U.S. Special Envoy Adam Boehler captured her on a commercial flight alongside the American delegation. Former President Trump hailed this development as “monumental news” and a significant step towards peace, commending the mediation efforts of Qatar and Egypt.

Meanwhile, Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi stated in an interview with Al Aqsa TV that the group had engaged in direct negotiations with the U.S. for Alexander’s release in exchange for the resumption of humanitarian aid. 

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office clarified that no ceasefire or prisoner release agreement had been reached, only an assurance of a safe corridor for Alexander’s transfer, with Netanyahu emphasizing that negotiations would continue amidst ongoing conflict. 

Currently, fifty-eight hostages remain in Gaza, with at least twenty believed to be alive, while four American citizens have been confirmed deceased.

 Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by both the U.S. and Israel. In Gaza, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating, with aid blocked and international organizations accusing Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war.

 Alexander was last seen in a proof-of-life video in mid-April, where he made a direct appeal to Trump, but shortly thereafter, Hamas reported losing contact with the militants holding him.