Emily Damari, a British-Israeli woman, has spoken publicly for the first time after being freed by Hamas as part of a ceasefire deal, following 470 days of captivity. She was one of the first three hostages to be released.
Damari, 28, was seen with a bandaged hand as she was reunited with her mother on the Israeli side of the border, after a tense two-hour delay in negotiations. She shared her relief on Instagram, saying she had “finally returned to my beloved life,” and expressed gratitude for her family and friends.
Her mother, Mandy, described Emily as a bright and cheerful person, always bringing joy to those around her. She also thanked everyone who fought for Emily’s release and expressed hope for the continued freedom of others still in captivity.
Emily, who was taken from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the October 7, 2023 attacks, was shot in the hand and injured by shrapnel before being taken to Gaza. She witnessed the death of her dog, Choocha, before being blindfolded and transported.
The release of Emily, Doron Steinbreche, and Romi Gonen was part of a prisoner swap, where Israel agreed to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange.
Emily’s lawyer, Adam Rose, expressed relief at her release and thanked the British government for its support. He also called for the swift return of the remaining hostages, including those with strong British connections.
The ceasefire agreement, which started after the swap, was initially delayed, but it marked a moment of reprieve after months of war and devastation in Gaza.
