The freeing of Alexander marks the first hostage release since Israel broke a weekslong ceasefire with Hamas in March. His release leaves 58 hostages remaining in Gaza; about half are believed to be alive. Hamas has said the move is a goodwill gesture toward the Trump administration.

A crowd gathered Monday in New Jersey to watch the release of Edan Alexander, the last living U.S. citizen kidnapped by Hamas terrorists, who has been held hostage for over 19 months.