In a recent conflict between Israel and Hamas lasting 16 months, one surviving American hostage remains captive in Gaza. Edan Alexander, born in Israel but raised in Tenafly, New Jersey, is the last American hostage alive. Despite the frequent visits to Israel and speaking Hebrew at home, Alexander grew up like many American kids, excelling in school sports and showing interest in the New York Knicks. He joined the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) after high school instead of attending college. The conflict began on Oct. 7 when Alexander, serving in the IDF’s Golani Brigade, was captured by Hamas during attacks that resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251 hostages. Edan assured his mother, Yael, that he was safe before being captured. Afterward, Yael spent days searching for her son. On Nov. 30, 2024, over a year after his capture, Hamas released a video showing Alexander speaking in Hebrew and Arabic, delivering messages about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. His father, Adi Alexander described the video as “emotional” and “disturbing”, marking the first glimpse of Edan since his captivity. Lawmakers from Israel and the United States have been advocating for Edan’s release, without success so far. His family and representatives, including U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, continue to push for Edan’s safe return.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/meet-edan-alexander-last-living-american-hostage-hamas-captivity