“He’s Finally Home”: A Nation rejoices as Edan Alexander returns after being held hostage for a year and a half

After more than a year and a half in Hamas captivity, Israeli-American IDF soldier Edan Alexander has been freed and returned to Israel, sparking an outpouring of emotion and relief from Israeli leaders, U.S. officials, and his loved ones.

Shortly after his arrival at the “initial reception point” in southern Israel, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Alexander would undergo an initial medical assessment and be reunited with his family. An Israeli official confirmed that Alexander has already spoken with his mother by phone, and that his father is currently flying to Re’im, where Alexander is expected to receive initial medical and psychological care.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz released an emotional statement, welcoming Alexander’s safe return:

“I wholeheartedly welcome the return of IDF soldier Edan Alexander. All of Israel stands united with his beloved family, who fought day and night for his homecoming.”

“We thank the U.S. for their active involvement in securing his release.”

He concluded with a solemn pledge:

“We remain committed to doing everything possible to bring back all the hostages, our brothers and sisters, the living and the fallen until they are all home.”

Speaking with deep emotion, Edan Alexander’s grandmother shared:

“Today is Second Passover, for those who couldn’t celebrate the first. Edan is celebrating Passover today — he is a free man.”

In a joint statement, mediators Egypt and Qatar, hailed the release as:

“A proof of goodwill and a promising sign for the return of negotiations.”

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee:

“I am relieved that American Edan Alexander finally gets to come home.” “Hamas alone is responsible for the continued death and suffering. We demand the immediate release of all remaining hostages.” “I hope the long-overdue release of Edan Alexander marks the beginning of the end to this terrible war.”

U.S. President Donald Trump:

“Really great news.” In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump sent his personal congratulations: “Congratulations to Edan Alexander’s wonderful parents, family, and friends.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:

“This is a very moving moment.” Netanyahu extended his appreciation to President Trump for helping secure Alexander’s freedom: “The release of Edan Alexander was achieved thanks to our military pressure and the political pressure exerted by President Trump.” He added that President Trump assured him earlier today that he is: “Committed to Israel” and “keen to work in close cooperation to release the remaining hostages and defeat Hamas.”

As Alexander undergoes medical evaluations and prepares to reunite with his family, Israel and its allies continue to focus on the pressing mission of securing the freedom of all remaining hostages still held by Hamas.