JK Rowling calls out kidnapping in Israel-Gaza after Harry Potter fan abducted: ‘This hits home with me’

Harry Potter author says kidnapping is 'despicable' in Israel-Gaza war

·Entertainment News Editor

Updated 17 October 2023 at 8:19 am·2-min read

JK Rowling has responded to a tweet about a Harry Potter fan (Getty)

JK Rowling has said kidnapping is "despicable" in the Israel-Gaza war after the story of a young Harry Potter fan has surfaced, saying: "This picture hits home with me."

She wrote: "Kidnapping children is despicable and wholly unjustifiable. For obvious reasons, this picture has hit home with me. May Noya and all hostages taken by Hamas be returned soon, safely, to their families."

Her words were shared with her 13.9million followers on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Monday evening.

The world famous author was responding to a photograph she had been sent of a girl Noya, 12, dressed up as a character from Harry Potter.

Kidnapping children is despicable and wholly unjustifiable. For obvious reasons, this picture has hit home with me. May Noya and all hostages taken by Hamas be returned soon, safely, to their families. https://t.co/YIbf3egib4
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 16, 2023

It had been reported the girl was taken from her home and taken to Gaza by Hamas.

"This beautiful 12 year old girl with autism was kidnapped from her home by Hamas terrorists and was taken to Gaza. Noya, is sensitive, kind, funny and a massive Harry Potter fan. @jk_rowling can you help us get her story out? Share this and help us bring Noya home," the State of Israel’s official account wrote, reaching out to JK Rowling.

Following her post, JK Rowling’s social media was awash with comments from many people responding to her words.

Among the comments, one said: "All children are innocent. All violence against children is despicable. This includes kidnapping them & dropping bombs on them from high up & calling it collateral damage. These actions are exactly the same & both should be condemned."

Auctioneer Jim Spencer holds a pristine first edition hardback of JK Rowling's Harry Potter — JK Rowling's books are loved all over the world (Getty)

Others said: "Though no words can ease your sorrow. But the whole world stands with the families of the victims in this hour of grief. I pay my heartfelt tribute to all the innocent deceased children, women and elderly people."

"Thanks for your support."

On Monday, Israel reported more than 1,400 citizens — including children — have been killed since Saturday 7 October.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian health ministry said on Monday afternoon that at least 2,750 Palestinians have been killed — also including children.

Read more: Israel-Gaza

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