UPDATE: Eli Sharabi, released from Hamas captivity, celebrated Christmas in Wales last week, marking a poignant return after491 days held hostage. Joined by his brother-in-law, Steve Brisley, this was Sharabi’s first festive gathering since his release from Gaza in January 2023.
In a deeply emotional scene, Brisley honored Sharabi’s absence during last year’s Christmas by setting an empty place at the table, marked with a napkin bearing his name. This year, that seat was filled, symbolizing hope and resilience as Sharabi joined Brisley and his family.
Tragically, Sharabi previously celebrated Christmas with his wife, Lianne, and daughters, Noiya and Yahel, all of whom were killed during the October 7 attacks. Brisley, a dedicated advocate for Sharabi’s release, spoke passionately about the need for government action to support hostages.
During a recent session at Limmud, lawyers Adam Rose and Adam Wagner displayed a photograph of Sharabi at the table, contrasting it with last year’s image of the empty seat. Rose recalled how Richard Ratcliffe, who campaigned for his wife’s freedom from Iran, advised them on the importance of public pressure on the government.
Just 24 hours after Brisley’s critical remarks about the lack of government support for British hostages, former Foreign Secretary David Cameron announced significant measures to assist families of hostages, including the formation of a dedicated support group within the Foreign Office.
“We managed to get the British government to take its responsibility seriously,” Rose stated, noting that the recent actions indicate a commitment to prevent future hostage crises. He also highlighted the Prime Minister’s pledge to enhance sanctions against Hamas and related organizations.
However, challenges remain. Rose and Wagner criticized the government’s refusal to grant British citizenship to the elderly parents of Sharone Lifschitz, another hostage whose father was killed in Gaza. Instead, a compromise was reached to treat non-British hostages with links to the UK “as if they were British,” ensuring some level of support.
Lifschitz expressed gratitude to the legal team for their advocacy, stating, “You were always a few steps in front of us,” emphasizing the success of the support system established for hostages compared to other European nations.
As the situation evolves, the families of hostages continue to seek justice and support. This Christmas celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the resilience of those who endure it.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
