DES MOINES, Iowa ( KCCI ) - Following the recent ceasefire and hostage release in the Middle East, KCCI reports Jewish leaders and a Palestinian refugee are cautiously optimistic while acknowledging that challenges still remain.

Jarad Bernstein, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, has been observing the situation with horror over the past two years, witnessing the daily bombings, death, and destruction in Israel and Gaza.

“I don’t think anyone thought it would take two years,” he said.

Bernstein emphasized the significance of the ceasefire and the return of hostages, stating, “We’re very relieved to have 20 living hostages returned after spending two years, really in dungeons of Gaza, going through hell every day. And another 28. Who were still waiting

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