NICOLE RUSSELL: Edan Alexander’s return is a reminder of Trump’s negotiating power

No American should ever be held hostage in a foreign country and have doubts about whether the United States will come to their rescue. This must have been a concern for Alexander himself.

Hamas has released the final American hostage they were holding, Edan Alexander, as a gesture of goodwill towards President Donald Trump. Alexander, an Israeli-American, was held captive for an astonishing 584 days before being returned to the US, wrapped in the flags of both America and Israel. His release was a moving moment, expressing gratitude for Trump’s negotiations and shedding light on the antisemitism that sparked Alexander’s ordeal.

While the exact details of the negotiations between the White House and Hamas remain undisclosed, Alexander’s freedom underscores Trump’s negotiating skills within his first 100 days in office. The return of Alexander was reportedly facilitated through discreet talks between White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Haia, mediated by a third party. Trump aims for Alexander’s release to pave the way for peace between Israel and Gaza, with Hamas indicating willingness for such efforts.

Witnessing Trump’s successful negotiation for the return of an American hostage is commendable, yet the trauma endured by Alexander and his family during his captivity will likely linger for years. It is unacceptable for any American to be held against their will in a foreign land, uncertain of their country’s intervention—surely a concern that plagued Alexander. Despite his return, there are still 58 hostages, both alive and deceased, awaiting liberation.

Alexander’s homecoming is a mix of joy and sorrow, as it reminds us of the circumstances that led to his captivity. While celebrating his safe return, with the American flag raised high above him, we must not forget the heinous actions of Hamas on October 7, 2023, when they carried out brutal attacks, causing devastation in Israel and taking numerous hostages, including Americans. The ongoing conflict fueled by antisemitism highlights Hamas’ skewed foreign policy, as they now call for peace under Trump’s intervention after initiating hostilities against Israel.

Hamas’ assault on Israel seems to have triggered a surge in antisemitism in the US, with reports of increased incidents online, on campuses, and in society. The rise in antisemitism poses a grave concern, as highlighted by various reports and organizations tracking such incidents. Despite the negotiation success for Alexander’s release, the underlying issue of rampant antisemitism remains prevalent and must not be overlooked.