For 471 days, the life of British-Israeli citizen Emily Damari has been a tale of perseverance and heartbreak. On October 7, 2023, she was torn from her home in southern Israel, enduring a harrowing ordeal that would stretch over 15 months. Injured by gunfire and shrapnel, Emily’s abduction marked the beginning of an unimaginable journey that her family and countless supporters have followed with hope and despair in equal measure.
Today, Emily’s name emerges as one of the first hostages to be released under the Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. For her mother, Mandy, this news brings cautious optimism. “It hasn’t happened until it happens,” she says, embodying the emotional turmoil of a family that has longed for closure while grappling with uncertainty.
A Mother’s Unyielding Hope
The past 15 months have been agonising for Mandy Damari, who has steadfastly campaigned for her daughter’s release. Lighting Shabbat candles each week, she has prayed that this would be the last one without Emily by her side. Across the UK, others have joined her, lighting candles in solidarity and hoping for the safe return of all hostages.
Emily’s captivity has been marked by brief updates and chilling silence. While some hostages released last year confirmed her survival, the family received no information about her condition until recently. Emily’s bravery and optimism, even in captivity, have been a beacon of hope for her loved ones. Yet, Mandy remains acutely aware of the physical and mental toll her daughter has endured, often imagining the dire conditions in Gaza’s tunnels.
A British Connection
Emily’s ties to the UK run deep. A devoted Tottenham Hotspur fan, she frequently visited Britain, immersing herself in family life, concerts, and the camaraderie of football matches. Her story has resonated with Spurs fans, who have shown their support through heartfelt gestures, including releasing yellow balloons during games.
Despite her resilience, Emily has missed crucial moments during her captivity. Among them, the passing of her beloved grandfather in Britain—a man she regularly visited and cherished deeply. For her family, the absence of their “core” has been profoundly felt, with Mandy describing the ordeal as losing a piece of her heart.
Moving Forward
Emily’s release offers a glimmer of hope but also a stark reminder of the many hostages still awaiting freedom. For the Damari family, the road ahead remains uncertain, filled with a blend of relief, mourning, and advocacy. Their story underscores the personal cost of conflict and the resilience of those who endure it.
As Mandy put it, “She’s the best daughter I could possibly ask for. I love her to the moon and back.” The hope now is that Emily’s return marks the beginning of healing—for her family, her community, and for all those touched by this crisis.
