Edan Alexander, last living American hostage by Hamas and a native of Tenafly, was released Monday afternoon.
Alexander’s release came on the eve of a visit by President Donald Trump to the Middle East. Many feel it’s part of an effort to get a deal to end the war between Hamas and Israel.
Alexander, 21, grew up in New Jersey and moved to Israel after high school to join the military. He was captured and taken to Gaza during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
Representative Josh Gotthemier has been calling for his release for months.
Gov. Phil Murphy, who also joined the call, released this statement.
“Tammy and I are incredibly relieved and thankful that Tenafly native Edan Alexandar will finally be returning home,” he said. “For 19 excruciating months, we have all been hoping and praying alongside Edan’s family members for his safe release. With every day that Edan has been held hostage, the Alexander family has endured unimaginable pain, uncertainty, and fear. “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.”
