ST. LOUIS - Images and information about the remaining Israeli hostages from the deadly Oct. 7, 2023 attack are pinned to seats inside the synagogue of Congregation B’nai Amoona in Creve Coeur.

“Each one has a story,” said Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham.

He said the images are present during prayer and serve as a reminder that those held captive cannot pray freely.

Abraham expressed guarded optimism over news reports that a release could be near, even though he said Hamas has not lived up to previous promises.

“There’s still some level of hope that maybe this will be the moment, especially with President Trump coming out with his own statement saying he believes that this is the opportunity to potentially end the war,” Abraham said.

Outside the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, yellow ribbons stay tied around trees, serving as a reminder of the hostages taken during a deadly attack on Oct. 7, 2023. 

The organization’s leader expressed cautious optimism that the hostages could be freed.

“For the last two years, we’ve been waiting for an end to the war in the Middle East, and we’re cautiously optimistic with the news that has come out today,” said Danny Cohn, president and CEO. 

He added that this is not the first time a deal has been proposed.

“It’s really not over until the Is are dotted and the Ts are crossed,” Cohn said.