"I Just Want to Hug Her": Family Overjoyed as British-Israeli Hostage Awaits Release
For 471 agonizing days, Emily Damari’s family has endured an unimaginable nightmare. On October 7, 2023, Emily was shot in the hand and forcibly taken into Gaza from her home in southern Israel. That same day, she witnessed her beloved dog, Choocha, being killed.
Now, there is a glimmer of hope. Hamas has announced that Emily is among the hostages it plans to release under a newly brokered ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Emily’s mother, Mandy Damari, is overwhelmed by the prospect of reuniting with her daughter. “All I want is to hug her,” Mandy expressed through a family representative, Emily Cohen. However, she remains cautious. “It’s not real until I see her. Until Emily is out and safe, it’s not done,” Cohen said on behalf of the family.
A 15-Month Ordeal
Mandy’s anguish over the past 15 months has been excruciating. Every Friday, she lights Shabbat candles, praying that each week will be the last her daughter spends in captivity. Behind the flickering candles, a photograph of Emily—a reminder of the daughter who has been missing for so long—stands next to a small British flag.
Families across the UK have joined Mandy in solidarity, lighting candles and praying for Emily and other hostages’ safe return.
Mandy recalls the harrowing day her life changed forever. Both she and Emily were at their homes on Kibbutz Kfar Aza when Hamas militants launched their attack. Mandy was able to hide in a safe room, her life saved by a stray bullet that damaged the door handle, making it impossible for the attackers to enter. Meanwhile, Emily was taken away.
Memories of Hope
In March 2024, the family received confirmation that Emily was still alive, though no details about her condition were provided. Released hostages who had encountered her described Emily as resilient, despite her injuries. “She was herself—brave and strong,” Mandy recalled hearing.
Yet, Mandy’s worry has never ceased. In December, she shared her fears about Emily’s captivity: “She could be starving, dehydrated, or suffering from asthma in those suffocating tunnels. Even if no one harms her, the isolation is torture. Every second, I fear she could be killed.”
Emily’s Life in the UK
Emily, a dual British-Israeli citizen, shares a deep connection with the UK. She’s a passionate Tottenham Hotspur fan, often traveling to Britain to visit family, attend concerts, and enjoy the culture.
Her love for her team has not gone unnoticed. Spurs fans have rallied for her release, releasing yellow balloons and chanting her name at matches. A large banner bearing her photo and the word “kidnapped” was displayed during a November 2024 game.
Sadly, Emily has missed life’s precious moments during her captivity. She will return to learn of her British grandfather’s passing and face the heartbreak of time lost with her family. “Emily is the heart of our family,” Mandy said. “Without her, it feels like a piece of me is missing.”
Looking Forward
Mandy has been relentless in her efforts to secure Emily’s freedom. Initially staying quiet, trusting governments and negotiators, she eventually felt compelled to take action. Traveling internationally, speaking at rallies, and meeting politicians, Mandy became a vocal advocate for her daughter and other hostages.
Despite her pain, Mandy has remained determined and dignified. As she awaits Emily’s return, she is cautiously optimistic but knows there’s still work to be done. “We’ll still mourn for those we lost and fight for the release of others still held captive,” she said.
Emily’s final message to her mother on October 7 was a single heart emoji. Now, the Damari family hopes their hearts will finally begin to heal as they prepare for an emotional reunion.
“I love her to the moon and back,” Mandy said, her voice filled with longing. “She’s everything a mother could ask for—a truly special person. I just want her home.”
