BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW)— As news spread that all 20 hostages held by Hamas had been released after 738 days in captivity, members of Buffalo’s Jewish community say they felt a deep mix of emotions; joy, relief, and sorrow.
For many, it’s a moment that has been long awaited. Miriam Abramovich, CEO of the Buffalo Jewish Federation, said she stayed up through the night watching footage of the reunions.
“It is incredibly moving to be at this moment,” Abramovich said. “There’s a sense of relief, a sense of joy, because we have waited and hoped and prayed for this moment and it is here.”
Still, the celebration comes with mourning. Abramovich noted that 28 people who faced down Hamas did not survive captivity. “In addition to our joy, we are mourning the loss of those who showed tremendous herois