The Ministry of Culture has announced the nomination of the film Palestine 36, directed by Ann Marie Jaser, to officially represent Palestine in the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards in 2026.

This decision followed an evaluation and deliberation session organized by the ministry, the official body authorized to submit nominations to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Oscars), based on the recommendation of an independent professional committee of Palestinian cinema sector professionals appointed by the ministry. The film Palestine 36 is scheduled to have its world premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, followed by screenings at major Arab and international film festivals.

Palestine 36 traces the roots of the ongoing Palestinian Nakba, revealing how colonial powers—primarily Britain—created a geopolitical trap for Palestinians. The film documents a pivotal moment where brutal colonial domination collided with national resistance and humanitarian crises, showing how the British reliance on Zionist militias and their harsh suppression of the 1936-1939 revolt paved the way for the ongoing Nakba.

A Unique and Bold Cinematic Language

The film goes beyond conventional storytelling, innovating a bold cinematic language that blends visual aesthetics, archival material, and historical narration into a poetic and artistically strong work. Its characters are diverse yet interconnected, closely tied to the geography of Palestine from beginning to end. The visual and cinematographic language enhances the environment and rhythm of the setting, aligning seamlessly with the historical era and archival scenes. With a profound cinematic style and high production value, the film reclaims history and narrative in a contemporary context, transforming the historical epic into a relevant epic connecting past, present, and future.

Minister of Culture Emad Hamdan stated that the nomination of Palestine 36 reflects the significance and strength of Palestinian cinema in carrying the narrative and identity amid ongoing attempts at erasure. He emphasized that the film presents its historical account clearly, showing that the story was never about ethnic or religious conflict, but about colonial violence and alliances between colonial powers, executed with artistic quality and professionalism befitting Palestine.

Hamdan added that the ministry always strives to provide full support to Palestinian creators and enhance their presence on the international stage, highlighting the importance of such participations in shedding light on the true origin of the Palestinian narrative under extreme humanitarian conditions and despite all challenges.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is scheduled to announce the list of eligible films for the 2026 Oscars on December 16, with the five official nominees revealed on January 22 of the following year. The 98th Oscars ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026.

With this nomination, Palestine has submitted a total of eighteen films in the Best International Feature Film category (formerly Best Foreign Language Film) since 2003.