Edan Alexander Freed, Israel Launches Airstrikes on Gaza

US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander has been reunited with his family in Israel after being held captive by Hamas in Gaza for 19 months, but the release has been followed by Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, killing at least 39 people.

The 21-year-old Alexander was captured on October 7, 2023, while serving in the Israeli army on the Gaza border. His release was facilitated by Israel pausing its military operations in Gaza for a few hours, and is seen as a goodwill gesture and part of efforts to reach a new ceasefire deal ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East.

The UN Secretary General has urged Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza, amid warnings that the entire population faces the risk of famine, with one in five people facing starvation. The release of Alexander is a significant development, but the conflict in Gaza continues, with Hamas demanding a lasting ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of more Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the remaining hostages.

Alexander's family has thanked the US president and urged the Israeli government and negotiators to continue working to free the 58 remaining hostages. The family's plea has been echoed by other families of hostages, who are pressing for a resolution to the conflict and the release of their loved ones.

The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with the Israeli military launching airstrikes and Hamas refusing to release the remaining hostages without a lasting ceasefire and other concessions. The international community is watching the situation closely, with the UN Secretary General and other leaders calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.