Title: 9-Year-Old Emily Hand Released After Months of Captivity by Hamas
Text:
In a heart-wrenching ordeal, 9-year-old Emily Hand was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, and recently released after nearly two months of captivity. Emily’s father, Thomas Hand, revealed the horrific details of her captivity, including being forced to move from house to house as Israeli forces attacked Gaza.
During her time in captivity, Emily was held with her friend Hila Rotem-Shoshani and Hila’s mother Raaya. The separation of Hila from her mother before their release was described as “another step of cruelty” by Thomas Hand.
Initially, Thomas Hand was informed that his daughter had been killed. However, the Israeli army later confirmed that Emily was alive and being held hostage by Hamas. After weeks of uncertainty and anxiety, Emily was finally released along with the second batch of hostages under the temporary truce between Israel and Hamas.
The emotional reunion between father and daughter was bittersweet, as Thomas noticed the changes in Emily’s physical appearance, including weight loss and paleness. Emily had been conditioned not to make any noise and was barely audible when she spoke to her father for the first time after her release.
While Emily and the other hostages had enough food and water, they were deprived of many things and had limited activities. Emily’s traumatic experience left her with lice and she is slowly recovering, although she still experiences emotional outbursts and has difficulty seeking comfort.
Despite the challenges, Emily’s determination and strength continue to shine through. She found solace and support in her friendship with Hila, and together they celebrated Hila’s birthday while still in the hospital.
Thomas Hand’s focus now is on helping Emily heal and ensuring the safe return of Raaya and the other hostages. He implores the world not to go silent and to join him in his plea to bring them home.
The ordeal this 9-year-old girl endured highlights the lasting effects of conflict on innocent individuals. As Emily continues her recovery journey, her spirit will undoubtedly help her overcome the trauma she has endured.
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