Edan Alexander, the New Jersey native and Israeli soldier held by Hamas for 584 days, was released by the terrorist group on Monday.
Alexander, a native of Tenafly, was captured during the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and was the last living American hostage being held by Hamas. The remains of four other Americans have yet to be returned.
Hostages have been at the heart of a brutal war in the Gaza Strip, where Israel has retaliated for the brutal terrorist attack that left more than 1,200 people dead with an offensive and occupation that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians in the roughly 18 months since.
The terms of the deal that secured Alexander’s release remain unclear. The deal was reportedly negotiated between the United States and Hamas, circumventing the Israeli government.
Hundreds of people gathered at Huyler Park in Tenafly to watch and celebrate Alexander’s release.
“It’s amazing. I’m proud of this community,” Liat Hortig, a Tenafly resident and friend of the Alexander family, told NJ Spotlight News. “We really supported the Alexander family in the toughest days, so we’re also really happy for them to finally bring Edan home.”
Local leaders praised Alexander’s release. U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5th), who has been one of the most vocal supporters of Israel among New Jersey’s congressional delegation and represents Tenafly, said in a statement that he was overwhelmed with joy.
“I’m deeply grateful to the negotiators and everyone who helped make today possible. But, we cannot forget the suffering Edan endured or the barbaric attack against Israel on October 7, where Hamas kidnapped, raped, and murdered more than a thousand innocent civilians, including dozens of Americans,” Gottheimer said. “This war is not over until all the hostages are released and Israel’s security is guaranteed.”
Gottheimer is also a Democrat running for New Jersey governor in the June primary election.
Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12th), who has been among the strongest voices in Congress pushing back against Israeli actions during the war, said she was grateful for Alexander’s release.
“This has been a horrific ordeal,” Watson Coleman said in a statement. “I pray this is a sign that soon a ceasefire can be re-established, the violence will finally end, and a lasting peace can begin to be built.”
Gov. Phil Murphy thanked the Trump administration for its role in negotiating Alexander’s release.
“With every day that Edan has been held hostage, the Alexander family has endured unimaginable pain, uncertainty, and fear,” Murphy said in a statement. “With Edan’s return home, their — and our — prayers have finally been answered. And as we continue praying for Edan and the Alexander family, we are also praying for the safety and well-being of every remaining hostage and innocent family in Israel, Gaza, and the entire Middle East.”
