The negotiated release of American hostage Edan Alexander is shining a spotlight on President Trump's personal touch and his ability to break through diplomatic barriers.

Alexander survived 584 days in Hamas captivity, and it's all thanks to one man that he is free today.

"Mr. President," Alexander told Trump in a phone call captured on video. "You’re the only reason I’m here. You saved my life."

Trump gave a warm reply, saying, "I'm very nervous talking to you, Edan, because you're a much bigger celebrity than I am."

"We love you"

Alexander, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen who was serving in Israel's army, was taken captive from his base near Gaza during the Hamas assault on October 7, 2023. He was only 19 years old at the time.

Hamas, in a gesture of goodwill towards Trump, agreed to let Alexander free following direct talks with the U.S.

Trump, in a heartfelt phone call with Alexander and his family, credited his mother Yael with getting him home.

"You’re an American, and we love you," Trump told Alexander. "We’re going to take good care of you. And your parents are incredible. I saw your mother. She was pushing me around a little bit—putting a lot of pressure on me."

"Like a good mom!" Alexander's mother replied.

Later, speaking with ABC, Yael described the emotional moment she was reunited with her boy.

"I was screaming and running until I bumped into him," she said. "I start crying like crazy. Because, that was the moment, you know? That's it. I got it. My son is here. He's in my arms."

Direct negotiations

Alexander was the last living American hostage left in Gaza, which has been heavily bombarded by Israel's military since the October 7 assault.

Israel only found out about Alexander's release through intelligence sources, according to reports.  Edan's father said he received eight missed phone calls from Steve Witkoff, Trump's Middle East envoy.

Alexander's mother thanked Trump and Witkoff in a statement but did not mention Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"President Trump, Steve Witkoff, and Adam Boehler worked day and night to bring back my son,” she said.

Israel is ramping up its offensive in Gaza in an effort to destroy Hamas and secure the release of remaining hostages. The families of the 58 remaining hostages have criticized the escalation, saying it puts their loved ones in harm's way.