Thursday, the Royal Film Commission (RFC), which is the official submitting organization to the Academy Awards, has decided to withdraw the film 'Amira' from the 2022 Oscars race.

The RFC issued a statement which read: "We do believe in the artistic value of the film, and that its message doesn’t harm in any way the Palestinian cause nor that of the prisoners; on the contrary, it highlights their plight, their resilience as well as their willingness to live a decent life in spite of the occupation."

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The statement also noted that this was also "the opinion of the members of the independent Selecting Committee, that was formed by the RFC and chose Amira over other movies to represent the Kingdom."

"Amira was shown successfully in many international festivals – Venice (Italy), El Gouna (Egypt) and Carthage (Tunisia) - as well as Karama Film Festival in Amman. The film has won two international awards in Venice," RFC continued.

"However, in light of the recent huge controversy that the film has triggered and the perception by some that it is detrimental to the Palestinian cause and out of respect to the feelings of the prisoners and their families, the Royal Film Commission has taken the decision not to have 'Amira' representing Jordan for the Academy Awards 2022," the commission announced.

Also Read: Palestinian Legislative Council condemns film “Amira” as offensive against prisoners

Also Read: Jordan submits 'Amira' for 2022 Oscars