Edon Alexander, Last American Hostage, Released by Hamas After 19 Months

Edon Alexander's Release and Reunion

• 🇺🇸 Edon Alexander, the last known living American hostage from the October 7th attacks, has been released after an 18-month ordeal.
• 🤝 New video captured the emotional moment of his handover from the Red Cross to the IDF, followed by a reunion with his mother at an Israeli military base.
• 🎉 Relatives in Tel Aviv and hundreds in his hometown of Tenafly, New Jersey, erupted in cheers and celebration upon hearing the news.

Community Support in Tenafly

• 🥳 Tenafly became "celebration central" as residents gathered from early morning, watching on a big screen monitor for updates on Alexander's release.
• 💬 Many who know Alexander and his family expressed overwhelming joy and relief, with celebrations expected to continue until his return home.
• 🙏 Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy issued a statement, praying for Edon, his family, and all remaining hostages.

The Ordeal and Hamas's Role

• 🗓️ Alexander, now 21, had been held captive by Hamas since October 7th, 2023, marking 584 days of captivity.
• 🤝 Hamas signed off on the release as a goodfaith effort, reportedly in connection with the Trump administration.
• 💔 The nearly 19-month ordeal has been described as long and arduous, with his family maintaining hope throughout.