Maj. Gen. (res.) Nitzan Alon, the quiet architect behind Israel's hostage negotiations, played a pivotal role from the first days after the October 2023 attacks until the final deal that brought the captives home. Alon, called back to service to lead the Hostage and Missing Persons Directorate, was known for his relentless work ethic, calm leadership, and unwavering honesty, earning deep trust from hostage families and colleagues alike. Despite frequent clashes with political leaders, especially Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Alon remained focused on his mission, often warning against military actions that could endanger hostages and insisting that a deal would require ending the war. His commitment to the families, transparent communication, and refusal to abandon his post—even when sidelined—cemented his reputation as a principled and indispensable figure throughout the crisis. Alon's presence at the final negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh symbolized the end of a painful chapter and the fulfillment of his long, determined effort.