Tel Aviv, Israel – Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander has been reunited with his family in Israel after spending 19 months in captivity.

A powerful video shows the 21-year-old embracing his loved ones with tears and smiles.

Alexander had been serving in the Israeli army on the Gaza border when he was captured by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023.

On Monday, Israel paused its military operations in Gaza for several hours to allow the transfer.

A senior Hamas official told the BBC the release was a goodwill gesture.

It was also part of ongoing efforts to secure a new ceasefire ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East on Tuesday.

Mr. Alexander is believed to be the last living U.S. citizen held by Hamas.

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