Tears of joy as 3 released hostages dive into their mothers' arms after 15 months in captivity

Three women — a soccer fan, a dancer and a veterinary nurse — returned to Israel on Sunday, amid cheers and tears of joy after months in Hamas captivity in Gaza.

JERUSALEM —Three women — a soccer fan, a dancer and a veterinary nurse — returned to Israel on Sunday, amid cheers and tears of joy after 15 months in captivity in the Gaza Strip.

They were greeted by their families who had advocated for their release at home and abroad.

“I’ve returned to my beloved life,” former hostage Emily Damari, 28, posted on social media after her release.

During Hamas’ cross-border terrorist attack Oct. 7, 2023, Damari was seized from her home in kibbutz Kfar Aza and driven into Gaza in her own car, losing two fingers from a gunshot fired by a militant. 

A photo and a video showing Damari holding up a bandaged hand has already become an iconic image of the hostages’ resilience.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-hamas-war-ceasefire-hamas-hostages-return-gaza-rcna188421

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