PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — The Jewish community in South Florida is celebrating today’shistoric peace dealthat secured the release of all living hostages held by Hamas since the Oct. 7, 2023 attack.

“We were holding our breath till the very last moment,” said Igor Alterman, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.

The emotional day marks the end of a two-year ordeal for families whose loved ones were taken hostage and held in Gaza. Under President Trump’s ceasefire agreement, 20 hostages have been freed in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.

“We are thrilled beyond words,” said Rabbi Jack Moline of B’nai Torah Congregation.

Community traditions come to an end

Rabbi Moline said his congregation had been lighting a second set of candles for the hostages who were being held in darkness, a tradition that is no longer needed now that the hostages have been released.

“When we have services here, when we light candles to initiate Shabbat, we’ve been lighting a second set of candles for the hostages who were being held in darkness. We are just thrilled that we no longer have to observe those two rituals,” Moline said.

The synagogue had also kept chairs in the back representing the remaining hostages, which will be removed during their next worship service.

Leaders praise deal beyond politics

Both Alterman and Moline said the deal transcends political divisions, with credit due to those who made it possible.

“There needs to be a credit given where it’s due. It’s the Trump administration that was able to bring it to the finish line. ” Alterman said.

“The work that he’s done on behalf of the State of Israel, the people of Gaza, he deserves all the credit in the world,” Moline said.