On Sunday, President Donald Trump declared that Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American national who had been held captive by Hamas since October 2023, was free and heading back to his family.
After almost 600 days of captivity, the news was released on Mother’s Day.
MONUMENTAL NEWS: “I am happy to announce that Edan Alexander, an American citizen who has been held hostage since October 2023, is coming home to his family.” –President Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/zTFBzD5rBN
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 11, 2025
“Edan Alexander, an American citizen who has been held hostage since October 2023, is coming home to his family,” Trump said on Truth Social.
The move by Hamas was characterized as “a step taken in good faith towards 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.” He thanked those who helped secure Alexander’s release.
Trump went on to say he hoped this move would be “the first of those final steps necessary” to bring the Israel-Hamas conflict to a conclusion.