Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander has united with his family members after he was released from Hamas captivity on Monday.

According to reports, he was serving in the Israeli army on the border with Gaza when he was abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

Israel temporarily paused its operations in Gaza for few hours on Monday to facilitate Alexander's transfer.

A senior Hamas official told the BBC the release was intended as a goodwill gesture and as part of efforts to reach a new ceasefire deal ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East on Tuesday.

He is believed to be the last American hostage who was held alive by Hamas.

Sharing an emotional image of Alexander hugging his family member, Israel Defense Forces wrote on X: "584 days apart. One unforgettable embrace. Edan Alexander is finally home."

Donald Trump congratulates

US President Donald Trump congratulated over the release of Alexander.

He wrote on Truth Social: "Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage, is being released. Congratulations to his wonderful parents, family, and friends!"

Antonio Guterres renews call for permanent ceasefire

UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the release of a hostage held in Gaza on Monday and renewed his call for a permanent ceasefire and greater humanitarian access to the war-torn enclave.

The Secretary-General “is profoundly relieved that Alexander has been freed and is now returning to his family and loved ones after this harrowing ordeal,” said UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric in a statement.

The UN chief renewed his urgent call for an immediate, permanent ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages, he added, stressing that hostages must be treated humanely and with dignity.

“He calls on all parties to immediately ensure rapid, unhindered, and safe humanitarian relief, including the delivery of critical services, for all civilians in need. Aid is not negotiable,”  Dujarric said.