Emily Hand’s dad vows to throw her the ‘biggest birthday ever’ after she turned 9 while hostage in Gaza

Tom Hand embraces his daughter Emily Hand as they reunite, in the early hours of November 26, 2023. (Israel Defense Forces)
Tom Hand embraces his daughter Emily Hand as they reunite, in the early hours of November 26, 2023. (Israel Defense Forces)

The father of Emily Hand, who turned nine while held hostage in the Gaza Strip, vows to throw her the “biggest birthday party ever” after she was released yesterday.

Events were held by supporters around the world to mark her birthday.

Thomas Hand also tells the Daily Mail that he was scared to hug his daughter too tightly when he saw her for the first time.

Emily was at a sleepover at a friend’s house at the time of the Hamas assault on October 7. She was initially reported killed, but it was later announced that she was among those held hostage in Gaza.

Emily’s mother died of cancer several years ago.

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