A video released by Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday shows Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander alive. The footage has sparked international concern and renewed calls for the release of hostages still held in Gaza.
Who is Edan Alexander?
Alexander, a 21-year-old dual citizen, was serving in Israel’s elite Golani Brigade on the Gaza border when he was abducted during Hamas’s deadly October 7, 2023 attack. He was born in Tel Aviv but raised in New Jersey, USA, and returned to Israel after high school to enlist as a lone soldier.
What’s in the Video?
The over three-minute clip shows Alexander seated in a confined room, speaking directly to the camera. He expresses a desire to return home and celebrate the holidays, specifically Passover, which symbolizes freedom in Jewish tradition. He also appears to criticize the Israeli government for its failure to secure his release—comments believed to be made under duress.
“When you sit down to mark Passover, remember that this is not a holiday of freedom as long as Edan and the other hostages are not home,” his family said in a heartfelt statement.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an Israeli advocacy group, confirmed his identity and called for continued global efforts to free all remaining hostages. The family has not authorized media outlets to air the video.
Current Situation in Gaza
The video surfaced shortly after Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced that forces had seized a new military axis between Rafah and Khan Yunis in southern Gaza. Gallant also revealed plans to expand operations across the Strip.
In response, Hamas warned that ongoing Israeli actions endanger the lives of remaining hostages. Their statement condemned the offensive for putting “defenceless civilians and prisoners at risk.”
Hostage Crisis Overview
Since October 7, Hamas has taken 251 hostages. As of now, 58 remain in captivity, with the Israeli military confirming that 34 of them have died. A brief ceasefire earlier this year led to the release of 33 hostages, including eight bodies.
Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander’s video message brings fresh urgency to diplomatic efforts and military strategy alike. His case highlights the complex humanitarian stakes in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
