American-Israeli captive in Gaza for more than 580 days warns Hamas: 'I will make you pay'

Edan Alexander, a U.S.-Israeli citizen released from Gaza in May after 584 days in captivity, has returned to duty in the Israel Defense Forces and declared he is prepared to fight Hamas.

Speaking near the Gaza border at the site of the Nova music festival attack, Alexander said he intends to use the knowledge he gained during his imprisonment. I know their language, I know their ways. I refused to set aside what I endured and decided to use it. You gave me hell Ill give you hell, he stated.

Alexander recently returned to his hometown of Tenafly, New Jersey, and noted that his appearance in uniform marked the first time he had worn it so close to Gaza since his release.

He addressed more than 1,000 attendees, including pastors, educators, youth leaders, and online influencers, during the Ambassador Summit 2025 in Israel. The gathering featured multiple speakers, including U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Other former hostages also spoke at the summit and were honored with the Here Am I Award. Alexander confirmed that he will share intelligence with the IDF based on what he learned during his captivity.

In September, Alexander announced his decision to return to military service, describing his 584 days as the most painful and challenging period of his life. Next month, I will return to Israel, put the uniform back on, and stand alongside my brothers. My story does not end with survival it continues with duty, he said.

At the time of his release, he was the final American citizen still held hostage in Gaza.

Author: Connor Blake