Edan Alexander is free — but now begins the hard part

After being released from captivity last night following 584 days, 21-year-old Edan Alexander is expected to undergo a series of comprehensive medical tests in the coming days, according to the medical protocol established for hostages returning from captivity.

These tests will begin this morning at Ichilov Hospital, where he spent the night with his family, including routine blood tests, vitamin checks with an emphasis on vitamin D, heart examinations, and CT scans. In total, Edan is expected to remain in the hospital for at least four days, per the Ministry of Health’s protocol, though past experience shows some returning hostages stayed longer.

The conditions of his captivity, described as “hell” with minimal food, beatimgs, being shackled and caged, torture and constant fear of airstrikes ,suggest potential challenges, such as malnutrition or trauma-related issues.

For the first two days, Alexander will be in a form of “isolation” at the hospital, a standard procedure to allow him time to decompress with close family while limiting external stimuli. This period helps medical staff monitor his mental and emotional state, as returning hostages often face complex psychological adjustments. His adoptive father, Doron, told Walla that seeing Edan walk and smile upon release was a “miracle,” but acknowledged the “immense complexity” behind his recovery, both physically and mentally.

Meanwhile, his family confirmed that, for now, Edan will not travel to Qatar but is in continuous contact with the Trump administration. The Prime Minister’s Office announced that Netanyahu spoke with Edan by phone today.

Walla contributed to this article.