The British-Israeli hostage, Emily Damari, who was freed after more than 15 months in Gaza captivity, recently spoke with the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. According to her mother, Mandy Damari, Emily shared that she had been held in facilities operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), an organization traditionally tasked with supporting Palestinian refugees.
Emily, who had been released 12 days prior, recounted her harrowing ordeal, which included being shot twice, leaving her with two missing fingers. The 28-year-old also stated that Hamas, the militant group that held her captive, denied her access to medical care following the shootings.
The claim regarding her detention at an UNRWA facility was described by the agency as a “serious” allegation. UNRWA spokesperson Juliette Touma emphasized that the agency’s facilities in Gaza were repurposed for shelter during the ongoing conflict. Due to the escalating violence, the agency struggled to provide food and other critical resources, despite its efforts. She also called for an independent investigation into whether armed groups, including Hamas, misused these facilities.
The matter is compounded by Israel’s decision to implement a law prohibiting UNRWA activities within its borders, a move that critics argue may undermine humanitarian efforts in Gaza. This law came into effect on January 1st, forcing international staff to leave. The Israeli government had previously accused UNRWA of employing individuals with alleged ties to Hamas and the Islamic Jihad movement.
Emily’s mother posted an update about the conversation with Starmer on the social media platform X, urging continued support for the safe return of other hostages and the provision of essential aid. During the call, the Damari family expressed their gratitude to the British government for securing Emily’s release. Mandy Damari further disclosed that Starmer had invited Emily to visit Downing Street once she had fully recovered.
Emily’s captivity began on October 7, when Hamas militants attacked her home in the Kfar Aza kibbutz, shot her in the hand, and took her and two other friends hostage. Despite enduring grave physical and emotional trauma, her survival has been described as a “miracle.”
The urgent need for hostages’ release and humanitarian aid remains a pressing concern. In addition, calls for greater Red Cross access to Gaza continue, as many others still face captivity and dire conditions.
The broader international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with hopes for increased diplomatic efforts to bring peace and stability to the region.
