They've been waiting for this for 583 long, arduous days. We all have, but none so much as Edan Alexander and his family. Now, at last, they are reunited, and it's every bit as tear-inducing as you might expect.
We waited all day for this.
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) May 12, 2025
Edan Alexander hugs his parents for the first time 💛🥹 pic.twitter.com/CQWL1rzT3b
Alexander, a 21-year-old from New Jersey, was the last of the living U.S. hostages held by Hamas following their horrific attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. There remain more than 50 hostages held by Hamas, 20 or 21 of whom are still believed to be alive.
On Sunday, Hamas announced that they would release Alexander. President Donald Trump, who's currently en route to the Middle East, confirmed the announcement on Sunday as well.
READ MORE: Good News! Last American Hostage Held by Hamas Now Free
Updated: Hamas Says They Will Finally Release US Hostage Held in Gaza; Trump Confirms 'Happy' News
Earlier on Monday, we got to see the moment Edan's mother, Yael, was first able to speak with her son, after Steve Witkoff, Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East, handed the phone to her.
“I’m here. I’m waiting for you”
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) May 12, 2025
Prepare your tissues.
Edan Alexander’s mom takes the phone from @SteveWitkoff and speaks to her son for the first time after he was set free 🥹 pic.twitter.com/iLCxwgQDn4
There's no doubt that Alexander has a long road ahead of him of healing and processing all that has transpired. Already, we have seen reports of the horrendous treatment he endured at the hands of his captors, including being "subjected to severe torture and held handcuffed inside a cage for an extended period, according to his initial testimony."
For now, though, there is the satisfaction — and joy — at seeing him held tight in the arms of his parents.
This is everything. Edan Alexander in the arms of his mother and father 🥹💛 pic.twitter.com/5gml0CXtBK
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) May 12, 2025
Welcome home, Edan.
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