COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The relief and joy surrounding the return of Israeli hostages home is being felt all the way to the Fountain City.

Rabbi Laurence Schlesinger, leader of Temple Israel in Columbus, says his congregation has kept the hostages in their prayers since the attacks began back in 2023.

He called the day a moment of happiness for families being reunited and for the worldwide Jewish community.

“So it’s a day of joy,” Schlesinger expressed.

Schlesinger expressed gratitude for the efforts of President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in working toward a ceasefire, but said he remains cautiously optimistic about what lies ahead.

He added, “At the same time, we’re cautious because this is just the first step and it’s a 20-point plan. We appreciate th

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