Emily Damari, who spent 471 harrowing days in captivity, shares her experiences and expresses gratitude upon her release after a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Released British-Israeli Hostage Expresses Joy and Resilience
Released British-Israeli Hostage Expresses Joy and Resilience
Emily Damari, recently freed from Gaza captivity, shares her emotional return to life post-abduction
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli national, made headlines after her emotional release from captivity in Gaza. Following her abduction from her home on October 7, 2023, Emily endured a grueling 471 days of confinement before being one of the first three hostages freed as part of a recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Upon her release, she declared on Instagram, "I came back to life," sharing her immense gratitude for surviving the ordeal.
In her heartwarming post, Emily expressed her love for God, her family and close friends. Despite the challenges faced, including the loss of two fingers from a gunshot wound, she conveyed that witnessing the public's response to her release greatly touched her heart. Along with Emily, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, were also released in exchange for the liberation of 90 Palestinian prisoners, marking the beginning of a much-anticipated series of hostage exchanges.
Emily's family, who received confirmation of her survival in March 2024 but no further updates on her condition, expressed overwhelming relief and gratitude upon her release. Her mother, Mandy Damari, emphasized that while it was heartwarming to see Emily's strength and resilience, it was crucial for her daughter to take the necessary time to heal with loved ones and medical professionals. In a touching statement, Mandy said, "Yesterday, I was finally able to give Emily the hug that I have been dreaming of."
The news of Emily’s release resonated with various public figures, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who expressed their joy and emphasized the importance of addressing the continued plight of other hostages. Adam Rose, a lawyer working with families of hostages, noted Emily's visible joy, but acknowledged the emotional turmoil that remains for those still held captive.
Among those still missing are British nationals such as Eli Sharabi, whose family has endured immeasurable suffering since their ordeal began. His survivor wife and two young daughters tragically lost their lives during the initial attacks. The ongoing conflict continues to cast shadows over the families waiting for word on their loved ones.
Amidst these somber realities, there are glimmers of hope as family members are reunited. Sharone Lifschitz, whose elderly father remains missing, remarked on the mixed emotions of those waiting; they joyfully celebrate the releases but are reminded of the painful uncertainty that lingers for others. As stories unfold, the community remains steadfast in support, honoring the resilience and fortitude of all those affected by this longtime conflict.
In her heartwarming post, Emily expressed her love for God, her family and close friends. Despite the challenges faced, including the loss of two fingers from a gunshot wound, she conveyed that witnessing the public's response to her release greatly touched her heart. Along with Emily, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, were also released in exchange for the liberation of 90 Palestinian prisoners, marking the beginning of a much-anticipated series of hostage exchanges.
Emily's family, who received confirmation of her survival in March 2024 but no further updates on her condition, expressed overwhelming relief and gratitude upon her release. Her mother, Mandy Damari, emphasized that while it was heartwarming to see Emily's strength and resilience, it was crucial for her daughter to take the necessary time to heal with loved ones and medical professionals. In a touching statement, Mandy said, "Yesterday, I was finally able to give Emily the hug that I have been dreaming of."
The news of Emily’s release resonated with various public figures, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who expressed their joy and emphasized the importance of addressing the continued plight of other hostages. Adam Rose, a lawyer working with families of hostages, noted Emily's visible joy, but acknowledged the emotional turmoil that remains for those still held captive.
Among those still missing are British nationals such as Eli Sharabi, whose family has endured immeasurable suffering since their ordeal began. His survivor wife and two young daughters tragically lost their lives during the initial attacks. The ongoing conflict continues to cast shadows over the families waiting for word on their loved ones.
Amidst these somber realities, there are glimmers of hope as family members are reunited. Sharone Lifschitz, whose elderly father remains missing, remarked on the mixed emotions of those waiting; they joyfully celebrate the releases but are reminded of the painful uncertainty that lingers for others. As stories unfold, the community remains steadfast in support, honoring the resilience and fortitude of all those affected by this longtime conflict.
