Palestinian Oscar Star Motaz Malhees Blocked from Ceremony
Leading actor and star of the film "The Voice of Hind Rajab," which is nominated for an Academy Award, confirmed he will not attend Sunday's 2026 Oscars due to President Donald Trump's travel ban on Palestinians. Motaz Malhees stated that while a passport can be revoked by government decree ("You can block a passport"), his artistic expression cannot be silenced or prevented from being heard globally ( "you cannot block my voice").
Key Points
-
1Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees will not attend the March 30th Academy Awards due to Donald Trump's travel ban on Palestinians.
-
2Malhees stated that while a passport can be blocked by government policy, it is impossible for authorities to block an individual voice or story from being heard globally. The film 'The Voice of Hind Rajab', in which Malhees plays the lead role alongside director Kaouther Ben Hania's direction and production team.
-
3Malheos expressed personal pain over his inability to attend despite having a ticket, emphasizing that their shared narrative is more significant than any physical barrier.
Developments
Perspectives
Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees will not attend the Oscar ceremony because of Donald Trump's travel ban on Palestinians.
— [Mar 13, 19:58] Ator de 'A Voz de Hind Rajab' diz ter entrada nos EUA barrada às vésperas do Oscar (Rss.uol.com.br)"You can block a passport. You cannot block a voice," Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees said, stating that the U.S. travel ban is preventing him from attending.
— [Mar 13, 20:58] Star of Oscar-nominated film says he's unable to attend ceremony because of Trump's travel ban (Independent.co.uk)"It hurts," Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees said regarding the U.S. government blocking his attendance at the Oscars.
— [Mar 13, 20:58] Star of Oscar-nominated movie says Trump travel ban blocks him from attending awards (Feeds-api.dotdashmeredith.com)"Our Story Is Bigger Than Any Barrier," Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees said about his inability to attend the ceremony due to a Palestine-specific U.S. visa restriction.
— [Mar 13, 20:58] 'The Voice of Hind Rajab' Star to Miss Oscars Due to Palestine Travel Ban (Thewrap)"You can block a passport," Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees said in response to the U.S. government's decision.
— [Mar 13, 20:58] 'Voice of Hind Rajab' Actor Can't Attend Oscars Due to Trump's Palestine Travel Ban (Variety)