During an airing of Channel 12’s Uvda investigation programme last week, released hostage Yaffa Adar, 85, explained how the music of Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli helped her endure 49 days in Hamas captivity.

“Every morning, I’d sing Bocelli to myself and say, ‘God, maybe this will bring a good day. Maybe today will bring [my release],’” she said.

Adar’s story reached Bocelli, who was so moved by it that he sent her a letter which Adar’s granddaughter read to her on last night’s Uvda programme.

“Dearest Madam Yaffa Adar, I wish I could give you a hug!” the letter began.

“I would like to thank you for the emotion that your story aroused in all the people who had the privilege to listen to it and especially in me as, quite incredibly, I am part of it!”

“I truly would never have thought that my humble voice, this great gift I undeservedly received from the heavens, could one day turn out to be so important!”

“There is no award, no applause, no honour or recognition, that is worth as much as your words, which I assure you, I shall never forget.”

“Thanks to you, from now on, I shall sing with renewed enthusiasm, with renewed faith, with new energy.”

“I hope to be able to meet you one day and sing, just for you, whatever you may wish, so as to erase, as much as possible, the painful memory of terrible days, which I cannot even imagine.”

“I deeply admire your courage, which is an example for us all. From the other side of the ocean, I send you my warmest regards, full of gratitude, admiration and affection.”

After reading the letter, Adar’s granddaughter said that Bocelli extended an invitation to fly Adar to one of his shows or perform a private concert for the former hostage.

“It’s an honour for me,” Adar said, clutching the letter to her chest. “Andrea Bocelli, who would believe I have in my hand a letter from Andrea Bocelli?”