The year was 2009, and the president was Barack Obama. His decision not to visit Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had just returned to office, was viewed as an insult. It marked the beginning of what many to this day see as Obama’s fractured relationship with Israel,

President Trump is leaving for his trip to the Middle East today. This comes as Edan Alexander, the last living U.S. citizen being held by Hamas, will be released in a few hours. NBC News' Yamiche Alcindor reports more details from the White House.

Edan Alexander, the last American held hostage in Gaza, has been freed by Hamas. He chose not to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Israeli media say he is not doing well, both physically and emotionally.

Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage in Gaza, was released by Hamas on Monday, ending an 18-month ordeal that began with the militant group’s October 7 attack.