RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) – A Richmond synagogue is reacting after hostages held by Hamas and prisoners held by Israel in Gaza were set free.

On Monday, Oct. 13, as part of a ceasefire deal brokered by the United States, Israel and Hamas released 20 remaining living hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

In Richmond, Keneseth Beth Israel rabbi Dovid Asher said members of the Jewish community are relieved to see loved ones returning home.

"It’s been hell and a horror story for two years, knowing that our fellow Jewish brothers and sisters were held hostage and kidnaped,” Asher said.

Asher said antisemitism had increased since the war in Gaza started in 2023, particularly near the synagogue. He hopes this latest deal will spawn peace for everyone overseas.

“There have been verbal attacks at our

See Full Page