Palestinian Actor Denied US Entry Due to Travel Ban
Motaz Malhees is an actor featured in The Voice of Hind Rajab, a film that tells the story of a Palestinian girl killed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza in 2024.
Malhees has stated that a travel ban imposed by the United States is preventing him from attending the Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, where the film in which he stars has been nominated.
Film Highlights Tragic Incident in Gaza
The Voice of Hind Rajab centers on the story of a five-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza in 2024. The film has received a nomination for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars.
Malhees portrays a call center operator who tries to assist the young girl. However, he revealed that he cannot attend the Oscars because he is barred from entering the US due to his Palestinian citizenship.
“I am not allowed to enter the United States because of my Palestinian citizenship,” Malhees said on Instagram, addingit hurtsthat he would not be able to attend the Oscars.
US Travel Restrictions and Their Impact
The travel ban stems from a proclamation issued in December by then-President Donald Trump, which restricts entry of foreign nationals using travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority.
The proclamation, citing security reasons, took effect on January 1, according to the US State Department’s website. The State Department has not responded to requests for comment regarding Malhees’ situation.
Background of the Incident Depicted in the Film
The film was inspired by a tragic event in which five members of Hind Rajab’s family, along with two ambulance workers who responded to assist her, were killed by Israeli fire. Israel has stated that the incident is currently under review.
Malhees noted that other Palestinian cast members in the film possess citizenships that allow them to travel to the US, but he holds only a Palestinian passport, which restricts his entry.
Broader Context of US Policies Affecting Palestinians
In addition to travel restrictions, former President Trump has sought to deport foreign pro-Palestinian activists from the United States. Recently, an immigration judge ordered the release of Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian who lost over 170 family members in conflict and had been detained for a year. Despite two previous orders, she had not been released until this ruling.
