In brief
Emily Damari, who endured 15 months as a hostage of Hamas, speaks about her injuries and the hope that drives her recovery while also advocating for the release of other hostages.
A British-Israeli woman, Emily Damari, who recently regained her freedom after 15 months in captivity by Hamas, attributes her scars to "freedom, hope, and strength" as she embarks on a challenging recovery journey. The 28-year-old was taken during the harrowing October 7, 2023, attacks on her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where she suffered gunshot wounds resulting in the loss of two fingers and extensive injuries to her hand and leg.Emily recounts the harrowing ordeal of being held in Gaza, where inadequate medical treatment left her with persistent pain and a severe untreated wound. “I have fully embraced the injuries,” she explained, emphasizing their symbolic representation of survival against overwhelming odds. Released as part of a ceasefire agreement, she spent 471 days in captivity and witnessed the suffering of fellow hostages, many of whom emerged in dire physical and mental health. "Hamas has created hell on Earth," she declared, urging for the prompt release of all remaining captives.Undergoing surgeries in Israel's reputable Sheba Medical Center, Emily shared that her recovery has exceeded expectations, and she is motivated to improve her hand's functionality through physical therapy. However, she acknowledges the long path ahead, indicating that total recovery might never be attainable. Her mother Mandy Damari expressed tremendous relief and gratitude that Emily's injuries were not compounded by life-threatening infections, despite her being “sewn up like a pin-cushion” during her captivity. Emily is eager to return to the UK with her mother once she heals and all remaining hostages are freed, expressing her gratitude to those who supported her during her hardship. The conflict between Hamas and Israel has escalated significantly, leading to the tragic deaths of thousands and the capture of 251 hostages during the October attacks. The war, which followed, has had devastating consequences for both sides, particularly in Gaza. Calls for accountability and transparent investigations into the alleged treatment of hostages by groups and agencies are gaining momentum amidst this ongoing turmoil.
