The Proof We Prevailed
WATCH Unforgettable Moment: American Hostage Edan Alexander Returns to IDF Service for the First Time
In an emotional display of resilience and defiance, former American hostage Edan Alexander donned his IDF uniform for the first time since his release from Hamas captivity, vowing to dedicate his experience to achieving victory.
A Symbolic Return to Service
A delegation of one thousand Christian leaders and influencers visiting Israel for the tenth anniversary of the Friends of Zion (FOZ) Museum witnessed a powerful and unforgettable scene when recently freed hostage Edan Alexander appeared in full IDF uniform. It was the first time Alexander had worn his military gear publicly since his release from Hamas captivity, transforming the event into a moment of national pride and defiance right near the Gaza border.
The large group, participating in a joint program with Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, began its visit at the site of the Nova festival, where they received a detailed briefing from Colonel Golan Vach, Commander of the National Search and Rescue Unit and a key first responder on October 7th.
Alexander, who became the last known living American hostage in the Gaza area, arrived at the event accompanied by his father and grandparents. He described his decision to wear the uniform so close to the border: "I wanted to show them that although they hurt me, I am returning to stand strong." He added that immediately upon returning home from captivity, which lasted a year and eight months, he requested to reenlist in the army. Alexander explained that the knowledge and experience gained during his ordeal, which he has described as “years of hell” held in tunnels, safe houses, mosques, and schools, leading to a loss of a quarter of his body weight, would now be devoted entirely to ensuring victory. His message to the terrorists who tortured him is clear: the soldier they tried to break is returning to the battlefield, this time on his own terms.
Voices of Victory and Resilience
Alexander was joined by several other recently released hostages, including Emily Damari, Tal Shoham, Moran Stella Yanai, and Aviva and Keith Siegel. All six received the "Here Am I Award" from Dr. Mike Evans, the founder of FOZ, in recognition of their crucial role in international advocacy.
Emily Damari offered a powerful, resonant message to the audience, noting the symbolism of the organization’s name: "You are FOZ, which in Arabic sounds like victory, and we have won. Thank God, thank the soldiers, and thank President Trump." Her words prompted a standing ovation from the thousand attendees.
Moran Stella Yanai, who was abducted from the Nova festival site, thanked Dr. Evans for enabling her to speak at the very place where her nightmare began. After two and a half years, she stood before the world to declare that she chose life: "I call myself a hero. I have won and I celebrate my victory. The very fact that I am here is the proof that we prevailed.”
Tal Shoham expressed profound gratitude to the evangelical supporters who stood by Israel during two difficult years, stating that "a true friend is revealed in times of distress." Dr. Evans, accompanying Shoham since his return, emotionally told the audience that Shoham’s presence was "a blessing from God and a strength granted by God."
Aviva and Keith Siegel offered their thanks to those who prayed for them and expressed deep appreciation for the people of Israel, the soldiers, and President Donald Trump for his efforts in securing their release.
The visiting delegation is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and senior security officials during their visit.