Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees has revealed he is unable to attend the upcoming Academy Awards ceremony due to a United States travel ban that specifically restricts entry for individuals holding Palestinian travel documents. Malhees plays a significant role in the Oscar-nominated film The Voice of Hind Rajab, which has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category.
Travel Restrictions Block Attendance at Prestigious Event
In a heartfelt statement shared on his Instagram account, Malhees expressed his disappointment at being barred from entering the United States to participate in Sunday's Oscars ceremony. "I am not allowed to enter the United States because of my Palestinian citizenship," the actor confirmed, adding that "it hurts" he would miss the prestigious event celebrating cinematic achievements.
Trump-Era Proclamation Remains in Effect
The travel restrictions preventing Malhees from attending stem from a December proclamation issued during Donald Trump's presidency that specifically targets individuals using travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority. According to the proclamation, which went into effect on January 1st, the president had "determined to fully restrict and limit the entry of individuals using travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority."
The U.S. State Department website indicates these restrictions were implemented for security reasons, though the department has not provided immediate comment regarding Malhees' specific situation. While other Palestinian cast members from the film reportedly hold citizenship that permits U.S. travel, Malhees possesses only a Palestinian passport, making him subject to the entry ban.
Film Addresses Tragic Real-Life Incident
The Voice of Hind Rajab tells the harrowing story of a five-year-old Palestinian girl killed by Israeli forces in Gaza in 2024. The film was inspired by a real incident in which five of Rajab's family members and two ambulance workers attempting to rescue her were also killed by Israeli fire. Israel has stated the incident remains under review.
In the film, Malhees portrays a call center operator desperately trying to assist the young girl during the tragic events. The movie's Oscar nomination represents a significant achievement for Palestinian cinema, though Malhees' absence from the ceremony highlights ongoing political barriers affecting artistic participation.
Broader Context of Palestinian Travel Restrictions
The travel ban affecting Malhees forms part of broader restrictions on Palestinian voices entering the United States. Recent developments include an immigration judge ordering the release of Leqaa Kordia, who lost more than 170 family members in Gaza and has been detained for a year, though previous release orders have not resulted in her freedom.
Trump's administration has actively attempted to deport foreign pro-Palestinian voices from the United States, creating additional barriers for Palestinian artists, activists, and citizens seeking to participate in international events or visit the country. These policies continue to impact individuals like Malhees who wish to engage with global cultural platforms such as the Academy Awards.
