American-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander Freed After 584 Days in Hamas Captivity

Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American-Israeli, was freed last week after spending 584 days as a hostage of Hamas in Gaza, becoming the last living American held by the group. His release was brokered by the U.S., with significant involvement from White House Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, and came after his parents nearly missed the news due to a series of missed phone calls. The emotional reunion at Israel's Re'im military base was marked by Alexander's extreme weakness and exhaustion, with his mother nearly knocking him over in her rush to embrace him. During his captivity, Alexander endured severe torture, starvation, and confinement in harsh conditions described as a 'cage.' His family expressed profound gratitude to the U.S. officials involved, calling the release a moment of pure joy after months of heartbreak and uncertainty. The case highlights both the personal trauma endured by hostages and the complex diplomatic efforts required to secure their freedom.