DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas released an Israeli-American soldier on Monday after being held hostage in Gaza for over 19 months. This act served as a goodwill gesture towards the Trump administration and may pave the way for a new ceasefire with Israel. The Israeli military confirmed that 21-year-old Edan Alexander was handed over to the Red Cross and later to Israeli forces, crossing into Israeli territory. Alexander’s extended family, wearing shirts bearing his name, gathered in Tel Aviv to witness his release, joyously chanting his name upon his freedom. In Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, hundreds of people erupted into cheers. In Tenafly, New Jersey, Alexander’s hometown, hundreds of supporters filled the streets, displaying signs with his image and listening to Israeli music. They embraced and waved Israeli flags while watching his release on a large screen. Ever since his capture, supporters in Tenafly had been gathering every Friday to advocate for the release of all remaining hostages. This photo gallery has been carefully curated by Associated Press photo editors.
