Is Gaza hostage survivor Edan Alexander, a Golani Brigade combat soldier, released from Hamas captivity, about to re-enlist in the IDF? Israel Hayom has learned that Alexander, currently staying at his home in the United States, is in discussions with military authorities about returning to serve in intelligence, and he will make a decision in the near future.
Edan grew up in the US and, at age 18, made Aliyah to Israel to volunteer for military service in the Golani Brigade. He was kidnapped on the morning of October 7, on a Saturday when he was not required to be confined to base, since his mother, Yael, was visiting Israel, and as a lone soldier, he was entitled to special leave to be with her. When the attack began, he managed to speak with his mother, tell her that shrapnel had hit his helmet, and that he was okay.
Video: Former hostage Edan Alexander at the hospital in Israel on the day of his release from Hamas captivity. Credit: Roee Avraham/GPO
During his days of captivity, Edan survived a bombing on the compound that secured the tunnel where he was held. Part of the tunnel shaft collapsed that day, and Edan sustained injuries to his shoulder and hands.
His release was carried out as a "gesture" by Hamas for US President Donald Trump, in hopes of resuming negotiations and ending the war. For now, the contacts between Israel and Hamas have not matured as the war with Iran continues in the background.
In June, he returned to his home in Tenafly, New Jersey, in the US, where hundreds of residents lined the streets with Israeli flags and yellow ribbons, cheering for his homecoming.
