Thousands gathered in New York’s Central Park on Sunday afternoon to mark the second birthday in captivity of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, following reports of the appalling conditions endured by hostages.
With 450 days of captivity weighing heavily, participants demand an immediate agreement to end the suffering and ensure the safe return of all hostages, said the press release issued after the event.
Adi Alexander, Father of Israeli American hostage Edan Alexander while addressing the gathering said that: “Today, on December 29th, Edan is celebrating his birthday—his second birthday in captivity.
It’s an unimaginable thought to even have to say that. This is a day that should be filled with joy and celebration, but instead we are marked by pain and worry. It’s been 450 days since he was taken, and every day without him feels like an eternity.
We need Israel and Hamas to reach a deal today. It is a matter of life and death, he added
Adi further emphasized the need for full support of U.S. leaders—on both sides of the aisle. This is not the time for division. This is a time for unity. We need President Biden, President Trump, laser-focused on this issue. We can’t do this alone. We need their leadership and their commitment to make this happen, and we need it before time runs out.”