Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli hostage recently released from 15 months in captivity, has described her scars as symbols of "freedom, hope, and strength." After enduring significant injuries and surgeries for her wounds, Damari remains optimistic about her recovery despite the challenges she faced during her time as a hostage.
British-Israeli Hostage Emily Damari Reflects on Pain and Recovery after Release
British-Israeli Hostage Emily Damari Reflects on Pain and Recovery after Release
A former host of Hamas, who endured severe injuries and trauma during captivity, finds resilience in her scars as she embarks on her recovery journey.
Damari was shot in the hand and leg during the devastating October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas, which led to her captivity in Gaza for 471 days. Despite experiencing immense pain and receiving minimal medical care — sometimes only outdated treatment — Damari has undergone a series of successful surgeries at Israel's Sheba Medical Center. She expressed her gratitude for the better-than-expected outcome and is now looking forward to working with physiotherapy to improve her hand's functionality.
Reflecting on her ordeal, Damari shared the harrowing conditions faced by hostages in Gaza, describing it as "hell on Earth." She emphasized the need for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. Her mother highlighted the miraculous nature of her daughter's survival amidst inadequate medical treatment in captivity, emphasizing the precariousness of her physical state.
Once she has healed, Damari expressed excitement about visiting the UK with her mother, where they plan to thank those who supported them through the ordeal. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has extended an invitation for the pair to visit Downing Street, following a prior phone conversation with Damari about her harrowing experiences during captivity. This incident, which resulted in a devastating conflict in Gaza, raised concerns about potential humanitarian violations, prompting calls for an independent investigation into the treatment of hostages.
In total, 251 hostages were taken during the October 7 attacks, and Israeli military operations that followed have led to a staggering death toll in Gaza. The situation remains dire as families continue to mourn the loss of loved ones and advocate for those still unaccounted for.
Reflecting on her ordeal, Damari shared the harrowing conditions faced by hostages in Gaza, describing it as "hell on Earth." She emphasized the need for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. Her mother highlighted the miraculous nature of her daughter's survival amidst inadequate medical treatment in captivity, emphasizing the precariousness of her physical state.
Once she has healed, Damari expressed excitement about visiting the UK with her mother, where they plan to thank those who supported them through the ordeal. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has extended an invitation for the pair to visit Downing Street, following a prior phone conversation with Damari about her harrowing experiences during captivity. This incident, which resulted in a devastating conflict in Gaza, raised concerns about potential humanitarian violations, prompting calls for an independent investigation into the treatment of hostages.
In total, 251 hostages were taken during the October 7 attacks, and Israeli military operations that followed have led to a staggering death toll in Gaza. The situation remains dire as families continue to mourn the loss of loved ones and advocate for those still unaccounted for.
