‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ Star Barred from Oscars Due to US Travel Ban

Motaz Malhees, a leading actor in the Oscar-nominated film The Voice of Hind Rajab, will not be able to attend the 2026 Academy Awards ceremony due to a U.S. Travel ban impacting Palestinian citizens. Malhees, who portrays Omar Alqam, the emergency operator who spoke with six-year-traditional Hind Rajab before her death, shared the news on social media, stating, “I am not allowed to enter the United States because I am a Palestinian citizen.”

The Film and Its Impact

The Voice of Hind Rajab, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, is a docudrama that recounts the harrowing final hours of Hind Rajab, a young girl killed by Israeli forces while fleeing Gaza City with her family in 2024. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival last autumn, receiving a 23-minute standing ovation and winning the Grand Jury Prize. It has since garnered international attention for its depiction of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Malhees described the emotional impact of listening to recordings of Rajab’s desperate plea for help while filming, noting that certain lines, such as her mention of being in “the butterfly class” and describing loved ones as “sleeping,” were particularly devastating. HuffPost reported that Malhees experienced a panic attack while listening to the recordings.

The Travel Ban

The ban preventing Malhees from attending the Oscars stems from a policy expanded by former President Trump in December, barring individuals with Palestinian Authority passports from entering the U.S. The Wrap details that despite his central role in the film, Malhees is unable to attend the ceremony.

A Voice Beyond Borders

Despite being unable to physically attend the ceremony, Malhees expressed his resolve, stating, “You can block a passport, but you cannot block a voice.” He affirmed his pride in his Palestinian identity and his belief that the story of Hind Rajab is “bigger than any barrier.” Esquire reported Malhees shared a statement on Instagram expressing his disappointment but unwavering commitment to the film’s message.

Wissam Hamada Also Barred

Hind Rajab’s mother, Wissam Hamada, is also currently barred from entering the United States, preventing her from attending the Oscars as well.

The Voice of Hind Rajab is nominated for Best International Feature at the 2026 Academy Awards.