JCRC Statement
May 12, 2025
The following is a statement from Ron Halber, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington.
“Nearly 600 days since Edan Alexander was kidnapped and subsequently held hostage by Hamas terrorists in deplorable conditions, we share in his family’s joy and relief that he has been returned safely. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of Trump Administration officials who worked hard to secure Edan’s release and pray for his physical and emotional recovery.
Edan’s release should reinforce the urgent need to secure the freedom of all remaining hostages. We continue to call upon the Israeli government, the Trump administration and the international community to do everything in their power to make this the top priority. While we remain steadfast in our support for Israel’s right to defend itself militarily against Hamas and other terrorist threats, we also continue to hope for an end to the war and the distribution of additional humanitarian relief to families in Gaza. All parties must reach a final agreement that ensures Hamas’ permanent removal from power and can no longer threaten Israel’s security.”