Four Arab films have entered the race for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. This award is annually presented by the American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to one film produced outside the United States. The initial list of 15 films, selected from 86 that met the eligibility criteria, includes «The Voice of Hind Radjib» by Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania, «What Remains of You» by Palestinian-American director Cherien Dabis, «Palestine 36» by Palestinian director Annemarie Jacir, and «The President's Cake» by Iraqi director Hassan Hadi. This is the third time in five years that a film directed by Kaouther Ben Hania has been nominated for the world's most prestigious film award, following «The Man Who Sold His Back» and «Daughters of Dolores». The Tunisian director wrote on her Facebook page in English: «Joy, pride and immense gratitude to every person who believed in the film and contributed to bringing this voice to life. What a beautiful moment, and what a journey awaits us». The shortlist of nominated films is expected to be announced on January 22, while the Oscar Awards ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026, in Los Angeles, California.
