American released by Hamas sends message to Trump: ‘You are the reason I am home alive’

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An American citizen held hostage by Hamas for approximately 15 months has released a video detailing his experiences while imprisoned, in which he thanks President Donald Trump for his role in securing his release.

Keith Siegel, a dual-national of the U.S. and Israel, was released by the terrorist group approximately two weeks ago after being held by Hamas for 484 days under “unimaginable conditions.”

“Every single day felt like it could be my last. President Trump, you are the reason I am home alive,” Siegel said in his video. “You are the reason I was reunited with my beloved wife, four children, and five grandchildren.”

American-Israeli hostage Keith Siegel, 65, center left, waves as he is escorted by Hamas fighters to be handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City, Saturday Feb.1, 2025.(AP Photo/Mohammed Hajjar)

He continued, “Thank you for your continued fight against terror and for your bold leadership that has brought me and many others back home to our families, to safety, and to security.”

Siegel described living in “constant fear” while being held hostage, perpetually fearful for his life and personal safety as he was “tortured both physically and emotionally.”

“When the war intensified, the terrorists who held me treated me even worse than usual. Terrorists kicked me, spat on me, and held me with no water, no light, and no air to breathe,” he recounted.

The U.S.-Israeli dual national emphasized that strong leadership and authority from the White House is what he believes ultimately got him out of captivity.

He also expressed solidarity with the “innocent civilians and hostages” that remain imprisoned in Gaza.

“Your leadership and strength will ensure the agreement is honored by all sides. That is what will allow all 76 hostages to return home to their families,” Siegel said in his video message to the president. “I trust your strength and leadership, Mr. President. The helpless hostages in the dark, cold tunnels of Gaza also trust you. Please bring them home.”

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Another American citizen is expected among three hostages to be freed by Hamas this weekend after the terrorist group agreed to resume the “specified timetable” of releases despite a spat over Israeli military actions.

Trump has warned he will “let hell break out” if Hamas does not continue abiding by the agreed-upon release schedule.

A total of 33 hostages will be exchanged for Israel’s release of almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners over the same time frame.

The first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal is set to conclude at the end of this month. The details of Phase II are still under negotiation with countries such as Egypt and Qatar as mediators.



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