MIAMI — There was happy news this week for Arabs and Muslims in South Florida.
“We are very happy the war ended and the suffering of the people of Gaza has ended hopefully,” said Bilal Karakira, a founding member of the Islamic School of Miami. “Myself and my community, we’ve been praying for peace as soon as possible. We are very happy the hostages have been released.
He said the community is also grateful for the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners who they view as hostages of the Israeli government that were denied due process for far too long.
He says the last two years have been tough for Muslims and Arabs in South Florida who favor a peaceful two state solution for Israelis and Palestinians after two years of watching civilian deaths and the bombardment of mosques, churches, universities and hospitals.
Reprieve is a blessing, he says, and while only God knows what the future holds, his community is optimistic.
“We hope that peace will last forever,” said Karakira.
He says the focus now moves to rebuilding Gaza for Palestinians.
“They are really, really strong people,” he said. “They are willing to build. They’re willing to start their life again and live a normal life.”
RELATED LINK
CAIR Calls on Media Outlets to Demand Access to Gaza, Freed Palestinian Hostages
Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
