PORTLAND, Oregon — With a fragile ceasefire now in place between Israel and Hamas , members of Portland’s Jewish and Palestinian communities are reacting with a mix of cautious optimism, grief and hope.
The truce, announced late Sunday, ends more than two years of devastating conflict and includes a significant exchange: hostages, both living and deceased, held by Hamas for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel.
Marc Blattner, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, said the moment brought emotional relief.
"Last night was an exuberant night," Blattner said. "I'm sitting in bed watching the news at 12:30 in the morning when finally the hostages are really back in Israel. There’s an overwhelming sense of joy and relief. But we’re still waiting for the remaining 28 dead hostages t