Emily Damari, a British-Israeli woman held hostage by Hamas for over 15 months, has criticised Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the UK's plan to recognise a Palestinian state. In a social media post, she accused Starmer of 'moral failure' and said the move 'risks rewarding terror'.
Damari, 29, was released in January after being captured during the 7 October 2023 attack on the Kfar Aza kibbutz. She was shot in the leg and hand, and two friends taken with her remain in Gaza. She said Starmer was 'not standing on the right side of history' and compared the recognition to advocating for Nazi control during World War II.
Lawyers representing British families of hostages also expressed concern. Adam Rose and Adam Wagner said the UK's proposal could disincentivise Hamas from releasing captives, as a ceasefire might make recognition less likely. They warned that the approach risked making hostages a 'bargaining chip'.
Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel abides by a ceasefire and commits to a two-state solution. The government also demanded Hamas release all hostages, disarm, and accept no role in Gaza's governance.
The families have urged Starmer to confirm that no substantive steps will be taken until all hostages are freed. Damari, who now campaigns for the release of remaining captives, said the decision sends a dangerous message that 'violence earns legitimacy'.
