British hostage named by Hamas as one of three to be released after 470 days

The last remaining British national being held in Gaza has been named by Hamas as one of three hostages set to be freed on Sunday (January 19). British-Israeli Emily Damari, 28, was kidnaped during the October 7 attack and has been a hostage for 470 days.

In a speech at Hyde Park in October last year, her mother, Mandy Damari, said Emily was taken from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza on the morning of the attack and shot in the hand, 'blindfolded and forced into her own car with two other friends'.

Her beloved dog Choocha, who was with her, was killed with a 'gunshot to the neck'. Described as 'the light and life' of her family and friends, Ms Damari was born and raised in Kibbutz Kfar Aza as the youngest of four siblings.

Her family said she has always remained 'close to her British roots' and 'loves visiting London' with her mother where they often see artists including Ed Sheeran and Adele.

Her mother said: “When she was young, her favourite place was London Zoo … as she got older, she turned into a big foodie, always dragging us to her favourite restaurants. We’d go shopping in Primark and visit markets for a good bargain.”

A lawyer for Ms Damari’s family said on Sunday there had been no 'independent verification' that she will be released.

Adam Rose told Times Radio: “No, we’ve not had any independent verification. I’ve seen what’s out in public, I’ve been in touch with the family, but not had specific confirmation yet, no.”

He said Ms Damari’s family are in an 'impossible position', adding: “Their daughter, their only daughter, now 28, was taken from her home on October 7 2023, she was injured in the process, and their world’s just been turned upside down while they’re waiting to find out what’s happened to their