The last British hostage held in Gaza, Emily Damari, has been released after spending more than 15 months in captivity by Hamas.
This marked the end of a prolonged ordeal for her and her family, who endured months of distress.
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli national, was one of three hostages who were promised to be freed after delays to a ceasefire deal that ensured the phased release of hostages and a temporary halt in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Her mother, Mandy Damari, from Beckenham in South East London, had been a vocal advocate for her daughter’s freedom, facing a constant emotional struggle.
Legal representatives for the families of British-linked hostages confirmed the news of Emily’s release.
Lawyers representing Emily’s family expressed relief at the news, highlighting the joy of the family after such a long period of captivity.
They also thanked the British government for its ongoing support throughout the 15 months of the campaign for her release.
They asked for privacy for the family as they processed the news, while continuing to call for the swift return of other hostages linked to the UK.
In addition to Emily, two other hostages, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, were released and are now in Israel. In return, Israel is expected to release around 90 Palestinian prisoners.
Emily Cohen, a representative for Damari’s family, expressed the pain that her family had endured in the final hours before the release.
She spoke of the nearly 500 days of torment experienced by Emily’s mother, Mandy. There was also gratitude for the widespread support from the British public, MPs, and football supporters.
Stephen Brisley, whose brother-in-law is also a hostage, shared his relief and joy upon hearing the news, especially for Mandy, whom he has grown close to. He expressed his deep understanding of what this release meant to her and the family.
The release of the hostages marks the first step in a ceasefire deal, which UK politicians have described as fragile.
There is hope for a peaceful resolution, but much work remains to be done. The immediate priority is the safe return of all hostages and ensuring that humanitarian aid can reach Gaza.
