Hamas Releases Video of Israeli-American Hostage Eden Alexander, White House Responds

Hamas published a chilling video on Saturday of Israeli-American hostage Eden Alexander, marking over 420 days since his capture. The video, titled "Soon...Time is running out," was shared on the Telegram channel of Hamas’s military wing, the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades.

In the footage, Alexander speaks in both Hebrew and English, expressing his deep distress. He pleads with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, criticizing the government for neglecting his and other hostages' welfare. "The fear is at its peak, and we are dying a thousand times every day," Alexander says, urging the people of Israel to pressure the government for their release. He also addressed former President Donald Trump, calling on him to use his influence to negotiate their freedom.

The White House swiftly condemned the video, calling it a "cruel reminder of Hamas's terror against citizens." In an official statement, the Biden administration reiterated that they had been in touch with Alexander’s family and emphasized their ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages. The U.S. government is working through diplomatic channels and increasing pressure on Hamas through sanctions and law enforcement measures. President Biden also highlighted the "critical opportunity" to finalize a deal for hostages' release and stop the ongoing violence in Gaza.

In a response to the video, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum called it "shocking" and "definite proof" that hostages are alive and enduring severe suffering. The forum stressed the urgency of a deal to bring the 101 remaining hostages home, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Prime Minister Netanyahu also reached out to Alexander's family, reassuring them that Israel is working relentlessly to bring all hostages back safely, despite the challenges they face.