October 12th 2023.
Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp has released a statement addressing the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The 19-year-old actor, who is of Russian and Moroccan Jewish descent, spoke out against people who have been celebrating the deaths of Israeli civilians in the conflict, which has claimed at least 2,100 lives.
"As a Jewish American, I am afraid," Noah began. "Afraid for my brothers and sisters in Israel, who have been senselessly attacked by Hamas. I am truly heartbroken to see the brutal murders of innocent children, women and soldiers fighting to defend themselves."
He then addressed those who have been leaving comments on his social media posts celebrating the violence. "I was met with comments reading 'no one cares free Palestine' and 'she deserves that, and every Israeli terrorist deserves that - Free Palestine'", Noah said. "I am outraged by the justification and celebration of the death of a young girl's life. Have people lost their minds??? STOP!"
Noah then went on to discuss the importance of empathy and understanding the issue without taking sides. "You don't have to be Jewish or Israeli to have empathy and common sense to know that this is wrong", he said. "We must recognise that we are all on the side of the fight against terrorism. Choose humanity over violence."
He also criticised the 'silence in social media', noting that many celebrities who have used their platforms to speak out on other issues such as Ukraine and climate change have been 'chillingly quiet' on this one.
Noah ended his statement by addressing those celebrating the violence and said while they 'justify the murders and torture of our loved ones, we will hope and pray for safety, justice, liberation, and self-determination in Palestine'.
His statement comes after model Gigi Hadid was applauded for sharing her own powerful statement on the war, sending her well wishes to all 'affected by this unjustifiable tragedy', including the innocent Palestinian victims.
Noah's post has been met with a positive response, with people praising his 'educated' approach to the issue. Stranger Things is streaming on Netflix.
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