Watch: “Thank you President Trump" Edan Alexander arrives at Ichilov hospital for medical checks

Earlier today, Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, 21, was airlifted by an Israeli Air Force helicopter from the Re’im military base in southern Israel to Ichilov (Sourasky) Hospital in Tel Aviv, marking a poignant step in his journey home after 584 days in Hamas captivity. Released earlier today through a U.S.-negotiated deal, Alexander, a Staff Sgt. captured on October 7, 2023, while serving in the Golani Brigade’s 51st Battalion near the Gaza border, arrived at the hospital alongside his family for comprehensive medical evaluations following months of torture, starvation, and confinement in Gaza’s tunnels. A video captured the helicopter’s flight, symbolizing hope, while a photo revealed Alexander’s handwritten note to President Donald Trump as he boarded: “Thank you President Trump!!! Am Yisrael Chai!!! Onward Golani 51.”

Alexander’s release, facilitated by direct U.S.-Hamas talks bypassing Israeli officials, followed his transfer from Hamas to the Red Cross in Khan Younis and then to IDF forces at the Kissufim crossing. His ordeal included brutal interrogations, being chained in a cage, and severe malnutrition, leaving him so weak that Red Cross personnel had to assist him into a vehicle. At Re’im, he underwent initial medical checks and an emotional reunion with his family, who traveled from New Jersey. His mother, Yael, spoke tearfully, saying, “You are strong, you are protected, you are home.”

The Kibbutz Nir Oz community, while celebrating Alexander’s return, issued a somber statement: “The Nir Oz community is deeply moved by the release of Edan Alexander after 584 days in captivity. We embrace his family, the community of Hatzor, and the Jewish community in the United States. Every hostage who returns is a great light in the darkness we are in.” Yet, they expressed anguish over the 58 hostages still held, including 14 from Nir Oz, stating, “At the same time, it is hard to ignore the harsh message received today by the citizens of the State of Israel, and conveyed to the entire world: our lives are worth less. A hostage with an American passport is given priority, while the other 58 hostages are left behind.” As Alexander begins recovery, Israel’s resolve to free all captives remains unwavering.