News of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, and the accompanying release of hostages and prisoners drew emotional responses from leaders in Michigan's Jewish and Arab communities.

Jewish officials celebrated the deal while the leader of an Islamic-rights organization expressed doubt that it will lead to long-term peace in the Middle East.

At Temple Shir Shalom in West Bloomfield Township, hundreds of chairs and a crib have stood on the temple’s lawn for more than two years at the corner of Orchard Lake and Walnut Lake roads with a banner “Bring them home now!” to symbolize the Israeli citizens, including a baby, who were taken hostage by Hamas in October 2023.

As hostages were released, the temple removed chairs, many of which were taken down during a special ceremony Monday

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