A historic ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect Monday, bringing relief to communities across Michigan who have been deeply affected by the 15-month conflict.

The agreement means Israeli hostages are returning home after being held captive for more than two years, while the bombing has stopped in Gaza and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners have been released.

At Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, members and leaders gathered Monday night for a last-minute "Joy of Freedom" ceremony to celebrate what they called a moment two years in the making.

"This is what we have been praying for and looking for and hoping for the last two years," said Rabbi Marla Hornsten of Temple Israel.

For the past two years, the temple had reserved chairs in their sanctuary for hostages who w

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