Held hostage 584 days, Israeli soldier from NJ rejoins IDF

New Jersey soldier freed from Hamas captivity vows return to IDF Dan Alexander Published: September 19, 2025 Edan Alexander's grandmother wears a T-shirt in his hon (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo), Edan Alexander at the FIDF Gala in New York 9/17/25 (Michael Priest Photography/FDIF)

👏 Edan Alexander, held hostage by Hamas for 584 days, will return to the IDF

👏The Tenafly resident made the announcement at a Friends of the IDF Gala in NYC

👏 He received a standing ovation after his announcement

TENAFLY — Even after spending 584 days in captivity, New Jersey's Edan Alexander will return to duty with the Israel Defense Forces in October.

Captured during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack

The 21-year-old first reported for duty with the Golani Brigade in 2023 and was taken hostage by Hamas on Oct.