Leader Schumer Floor Remarks On The Release Of American-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander
Washington, D.C. – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor following the release of Edan Alexander, who was brutally held by Hamas for almost 600 days, and continuing his calls to bring all the hostages home. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks, which can also be viewed here:
Today, we’ve heard some very good news: Edan Alexander – an American-Israeli and New Jersey native – has finally been freed from Hamas’ brutal captivity and reunited with his family.
I first met Edan’s parents, Adi and Yael, right after October 7th, a few days later, when Edan was taken hostage by Hamas. For the last 584 days, Adi and Yael have fought tirelessly for Edan’s release. Today, that work pays off as they finally get to hug their son again.
Edan’s release gives me more hope and motivation to keep pushing for the release of all 58 hostages still in Hamas’ captivity, including the remains of four New Yorkers brutally murdered by Hamas: Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Gad Haggai, and Judi Weinstein.
They were brutally killed, but their remains should be sent back. But of course, Hamas, as brutal as they are, doesn't do that yet.
As the president departs to the Middle East, I call on him and his administration to use the full weight of U.S. diplomatic power to get a deal to bring all the hostages home.
I will continue working as long as it takes to finally bring every last hostage – including the remains of the hostages no longer with us – home at last.
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