Freed Gaza Hostage Emily Damari Claims Hamas Held Her in UNRWA Facilities

British-Israeli Emily Damari, freed after 15 months in captivity, alleges Hamas denied her medical treatment and held her in UN refugee agency premises.

Emily Damari, a British-Israeli woman freed after over 15 months in captivity, has told UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that Hamas detained her in facilities belonging to the UN refugee agency UNRWA, according to her mother, Mandy.

Damari, 28, was captured on October 7, 2023, and reported being shot twice while in captivity, with Hamas allegedly denying her medical care.

The UNRWA has labeled these claims ‘very serious’ and called for independent investigations into any potential misuse of its facilities by armed groups, including Hamas.

UNRWA has faced increasing scrutiny, with Israel accusing the agency of employing militants linked to Hamas and Islamic Jihad.

Israel has also enacted a law banning UNRWA activities in its territory.

Damari, who was released on January 19, 2025, urged the UK government to ensure the Red Cross gains access to other hostages still held in Gaza.

During a call with Starmer, she thanked him for the UK’s efforts in securing her release, and her mother shared a photograph of them during the call, urging continued support for those still imprisoned.

Damari was originally taken from her home in Kfar Aza kibbutz, where she was shot and abducted by Hamas operatives.

She and her family have expressed their gratitude for the Prime Minister’s role in her release, with Damari invited to visit Downing Street once she has recovered.