Shas chairman Aryeh Deri welcomed the release of soldier Idan Alexander from Hamas captivity after 584 days. 'A psalm of thanksgiving, shout unto the Lord, all the earth,' he said. 'Together with all of Israel, my heart swells with joy and gratitude for the return of captivity survivor, fighter Idan Alexander, to his family's embrace. His grandmother Varda's words about her grandson's release specifically on Pesach Sheni (Second Passover) are especially moving - a powerful symbol of faith and second chance to emerge from darkness to light. Idan's release provides hope and strengthens our commitment to work tirelessly for the return of the remaining hostages soon.'