The father of a New Jersey native who is being held hostage by Hamas is hopeful about the ceasefire deal announced Wednesday, even though he says his son will not be among the first wave of those released.

There is a sense of optimism among members of the Palestinian community in New Jersey that a peace settlement will begin this weekend, despite delays to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The father of one of the three Americans still alive in Gaza said he feels “optimistic” for the first time in 15 months following the Israel-Hamas hostage exchange agreement, but he’s doubtful his son will be among the first captives released.

We also want to caution that diplomacy doesn't end with the signing of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, said a member of J Street.

The losses suffered in the Palestinian American community have been immense. They felt the ceasefire should have happened sooner.

Edan Alexander was seen on video in November and his parents were both pleased to see him alive, but saddened to see him as a captive.

American families of Israeli hostages being held in Gaza have been in contact with negotiators as a draft deal for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages has been agreed to in principle​, CBS News has learned.

Hamas remains the dominant Palestinian power in Gaza even after 15 months of Israeli bombardment, holding sway in displacement camps and refusing to surrender.