CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Local religious leaders are expressing their relief after Israel and Hamas reached a peace deal signaling a significant step in ending the two-year war.

All living hostages on both sides of the war were released Monday.

WBTV spoke to Rabbi Yossi Groner, spiritual leader of Congregation Ohr HaTorah in Charlotte.

We also spoke to Jibril Hough, spokesperson for the Islamic Center of Charlotte.

Both men said they are thrilled by the peace agreement, but approaching the future for the Middle East with a subdued optimism.

“Finally we’re here, but we’re greeting this with cautious optimism,” Hough said. “We’re happy. We’re hoping this is a step forward that will lead to something more sustainable.”

“Am I no longer worried about the future? Absolutely not,” Groner sa

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