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Palestinian Actor Blocked from Oscars Amid Travel Ban

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Motaz Malhees (Palestinian actor) cannot attend the 2026 Oscars due to a travel ban by U.S. President Donald Trump on Palestinian Authority passport holders.
The Voice of Hind Rajab is about a five-year-old girl killed by Israeli forces in 2024 and is nominated for Best International Feature.
Malhees expressed disappointment on Instagram.
Director Kaouther Ben Hania emphasized giving a voice to those affected by conflict.

History

Historical Context

In 2017, President Donald Trump implemented a travel ban affecting Palestinian Authority passport holders, limiting their access to the U.S. This policy exacerbated cultural isolation for Palestinians amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighted by the tragic death of five-year-old Hind Rajab in 2024. The situation underscores the broader implications of such policies on international representation and cultural exchange.

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Story summary

Motaz Malhees (Palestinian actor) cannot attend the 2026 Oscars due to a travel ban by U.S. President Donald Trump on Palestinian Authority passport holders.
The Voice of Hind Rajab is about a five-year-old girl killed by Israeli forces in 2024 and is nominated for Best International Feature.
Malhees expressed disappointment on Instagram.
Director Kaouther Ben Hania emphasized giving a voice to those affected by conflict.

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