British-Israeli Emily Damari with her mother, Mandy, after being released by Hama —AP

Agencies LONDON

Freed British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, held captive in Gaza for over 15 months, recently revealed to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that Hamas had detained her in facilities belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).  Damari, who was released 12 days prior, also claimed she was denied medical treatment by Hamas after being shot twice, resulting in the loss of two fingers.

UNRWA acknowledged the “very serious” claims, stating they lacked access to many of their facilities for months, particularly after the war began when most buildings were converted into shelters. Spokesperson Juliette Touma emphasized their repeated calls for hostage release and independent investigations into the alleged misuse of UNRWA premises by Palestinian armed groups, including Hamas.

These allegations coincide with a recent Israeli law banning UNRWA activities within Israel, forcing the departure of international staff. UNRWA predicts this ban will severely hamper Gaza’s recovery and political transition, jeopardizing crucial humanitarian aid.

Israel has accused UNRWA of employing members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, some of whom allegedly participated in the October 7th attacks. While UNRWA dismissed nine employees after an internal investigation, they deny knowingly supporting armed groups.

Damari and her mother detailed her captivity conditions to Starmer, urging him to ensure Red Cross access to remaining hostages in Gaza. Her mother described her survival as a miracle and stressed the urgent need for aid delivery to those still captive. 

Damari was abducted from her home in Kfar Aza on October 7th, 2023, after being shot in the hand and forced into her own car along with two friends.