In an emotional homecoming, Edan Alexander returned to Tenafly, New Jersey, after enduring 584 harrowing days as a hostage.

At a Glance

• Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American-Israeli, was welcomed with cheers and flags in his hometown after his release.
• Kidnapped by Hamas at 19 while serving in the Israeli Defense Forces, Alexander’s return marked the end of his ordeal.
• The Tenafly Jewish community rallied with weekly prayers and marches throughout his captivity.
• His release after 19 months was the result of strategic military pressure and political negotiations.

Edan Alexander’s Heroic Return

Edan Alexander, who was abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, as part of a larger attack, made his return to a hero’s welcome in Tenafly. Streets were filled with residents holding American and Israeli flags, handmade signs, and tearful smiles. His homecoming is a testament to the resilience and determination of a supportive community that never gave up hope for his return.

The community’s unwavering support for Edan during his captivity included weekly marches and prayers, celebrating his birthday despite his absence. Such actions exemplify the spirit and unity of a community that stood strong even in the face of despair. Residents viewed Edan’s return not only as a personal victory, but as a symbol of hope and resilience for the global Jewish community.

Surviving the Ordeal

Edan’s harrowing experience involved being held in underground tunnels without exposure to daylight, enduring severe hardships. The young man had moved to Israel at 18 to serve in the IDF, embodying the values of duty and bravery. His ordeal recognized the critical need for continued vigilance and support for hostages still held captive.

“Edan’s return is the return of everybody’s child. Every organization. Every family. Every Israeli family. And not Israeli. Not Jewish. Everyone in this community was part of what Edan was going through and was hoping for today to come.” – Orly Chen

After nearly 600 days, his release on May 12 was facilitated by diplomatic and military efforts, underscoring the crucial collaboration between Israel and the U.S. to bring him home. His current focus is on recovery, as he was released with significant health issues, weighing only 121 pounds and suffering from hand injuries.

A Community United

The Tenafly Jewish community’s perseverance reflected a shared strength and commitment to their values. Weekly marches and prayers organized by Rabbi Mordechai Shain and others cultivated a social fabric closely knit by shared hope and collective spirit. In a display of profound emotion, friends and family expressed relief and commitment to Edan’s reintegration.

“It’s such a blessing to have him back. We miss him so much for the past almost two years. We’ve been praying, crying, so excited — full of emotions.” – Michelle Attias

The gathering in Tenafly was more than a welcome celebration; it was a declaration of strength and community solidarity. The enduring support for Edan and his family from the Israeli-Jewish American population in Bergen County illustrates the ongoing fight for freedom and justice for all who remain captive.