This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive.

Iranian Actress Boycotting 2017 Oscars Over Trump's 'Racist' Visa Ban

Taraneh Alidoosti stars in the Oscar-nominated film "The Salesman."

An Iranian actress says she's boycotting the Oscars, but not because of #OscarsSoWhite.

Taraneh Alidoosti, who stars in "The Salesman," nominated for best foreign-language film, said she won't be attending the 2017 Oscars come Feb. 26 as a result of President Trump's visa ban for Iranians, which she calls "racist."

On Thursday, the 33-year-old posted her declaration on Twitter, writing, "Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017 in protest."

Alidoosti's statement came a day after it was revealed Trump is expected to sign measures restricting immigrants from seven Muslim-majority countries from being granted U.S. visas including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The Guardian notes that although the ban hasn't yet been confirmed, a draft executive order obtained by journalists on Jan. 25 showed a decision is expected soon.

The reports about the visa ban sparked outrage in Iran, with many saying it was discriminatory.

"Even if this were the right approach, it is notable that the list doesn’t include Saudi Arabia and would have done nothing to prevent 9/11 or the other terrorist attacks committed by radical Wahhabi jihadists in the US," read the statement. "But it does include Iran — from which no national has committed a terrorist act in America."

Taraneh Alidoosti attends the closing ceremony of the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais des Festivals on May 22, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Anthony Harvey/FilmMagic)

It continued, "This is discriminatory. This is un-American. And last but not least: This is dangerous as it pits Americans against Americans while undermining the very principles of inclusivity and tolerance that define America. We will not be silent and will use every resource at our disposal to fight these shameful actions and protect the values and people who make America great."

As of press time, neither "The Salesman" director, Asghar Farhadi, nor the male star, Shahab Hosseini, have spoken about whether they plan on attending the 2017 Oscars.

Also on HuffPost

1929 - The Academy Awards

The Oscars: Photos Of Hollywood's Biggest Night Through The Years

Close
This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.