J Street Welcomes Release of Israeli-American Hostage Edan Alexander, Urges Full Ceasefire and Hostage Deal

May 12, 2025

Washington, DC – Following the release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, who had been held captive for 584 days since the October 7 attacks, J Street President Jeremy Ben-Ami issued the following statement:

“We are profoundly relieved to see Edan Alexander free and reunited with his family after more than 580 harrowing days in captivity. His return is a moment of immense joy for his loved ones, for the Israeli and American people and for all who have worked tirelessly for the release of the hostages. Thank you to all the members of the administration and the families and community members who have worked to make this happen.

Edan’s release underscores the urgent need for all parties to continue diplomatic talks to secure a comprehensive agreement to bring home all 58 remaining hostages and end the war in Gaza. This is the clear desire of the Israeli public as over 70% stand behind a deal that ends the war and brings the hostages home. It’s the best path forward to ending this crisis once and for all.

After more than 70 days of blockading humanitarian supplies from all entry points into Gaza, it is also vital that the Netanyahu government open the border crossings and allow for a desperately needed surge in humanitarian aid. Civilians in Gaza cannot be made to pay for the crimes for Hamas. It is not who we are, nor what we hope the Jewish state to be.

With US Envoy Steve Witkoff in Israel and President Trump about to take off for the Middle East, we urge this administration to use all of its leverage to work with Israel, the Palestinian Authority as well as Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE on a common path forward. Together, they must secure a hostage deal and ceasefire that establishes a post-war plan to ensure that Hamas can no longer rule in Gaza, and lays the foundation for a longer-term 23 state solution that includes a secure Israel fully integrated and in peace with all its neighbors, and the recognition of a stable, demilitarized Palestinian state.”