Speaking after his release from the hospital on Friday, Alexander told his family that during one of the many transfers across Gaza, he was transported in a donkey cart through a crowded market—accompanied by a Hamas terrorist disguised as a woman to avoid detection.

According to Alexander, he was constantly moved from one hiding place to another, including Hamas tunnels, safe houses, mosques, schools, and even tents used for displaced civilians. He was held in harsh conditions for over a year, and at one point suffered injuries after a tunnel collapsed. During part of his captivity, he was kept alongside fellow hostage Matan Zangauker, whose mother, Einav, later confirmed she received proof of life from her son.

Alexander said he lost around 20 kilograms, surviving on seawater and moldy bread. He described his ordeal simply as “a year of hell,” highlighting the brutality and inhumanity of his captors.