Hostage Freed from Hamas to Meet with President at White House

Edan Alexander, an American citizen who endured 584 days in Hamas captivity, is scheduled to meet President Trump at the White House to commemorate the second anniversary of the October 7 terror attack on Israel. Alexander, an Israeli-American from New Jersey, was released in May and was believed to be the last surviving U.S. hostage held by Hamas.

The 21-year-old will join the president in the Oval Office for a meeting expected around 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday. During his captivity, Alexander was photographed in Gaza during his handover to the Red Cross.

Alexander expressed his gratitude publicly, stating, “I came to thank the person responsible for saving my life,” during a White House visit, highlighting the support from his parents and the significance of being together with them in that moment.

In May, former President Trump described Alexander’s release as a meaningful step toward ending the conflict in Gaza. Trump had announced a 20-point ceasefire plan aimed at freeing remaining hostages and halting fighting, noting that “technical talks” on implementation were progressing well and could lead to positive outcomes by week’s end.

The October 2023 Hamas attack resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 251 kidnappings in Israel, prompting Israel’s military operations to neutralize Hamas and recover hostages. Alexander previously met with Trump and First Lady Melania in July, revealing that his treatment during captivity improved after Trump’s election.

Alexander has announced his intention to rejoin the Israel Defense Forces next month, stating, “I will once again put on the IDF uniform and serve proudly alongside my brothers,” emphasizing his continued commitment beyond survival: “My story does not end with survival — it continues with service.”