Selma Blair Apologizes Following Backlash for Anti-Islam Social Media Comment

Selma Blair has issued an apology after being criticized for posting an anti-Islam comment on a video regarding the Israel–Hamas war last week.

The actress wrote in a statement shared on Instagram Tuesday, “This is a time of great pain and anguish for many around the world, but it is also a time to learn and better understand how words matter. I commented on a post by Abraham Hamra regarding two congress members who are against banning October 7th Hamas terrorists from entering the USA. In my comment, I mistakenly and inadvertently conflated Muslims with Radical Islamists and fundamentalists, a terrible err in my words, and resulted in hurting countless people I never meant to, and I deeply regret this. As soon as my error was brought to my attention, I deleted the comment.”

“Hate and misinformation are amplified so easily these days,” Blair continued. “This time by my own hands. In this instance, I erred in my writing and I fully recognize how I contributed to the Muslim community being understandably very upset. I respect and love all peace-loving communities, all over the world. It was my Muslim friends who helped educate and show me the way. I am committed to paying forward their love and understanding. We cannot allow ignorance and rage to becomes our downfall.”

The Cruel Intentions actress was quickly slammed on social media last week after she commented on a Feb. 2 Instagram video posted by a user profile named Abraham Hamra. In the clip, Hamra appeared to be speaking out in defense of the Jewish community months following the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks.

The actress wrote in a since-deleted comment, “Thank you so much. Deport all these terrorist supporting goons. Islam has destroyed Muslim countries and then they come here and destroyed minds. They know they are liars. Twisted justifications. May they meet their fate.”

Among those who took to X, formerly Twitter, to criticize the Cruel Intentions actress, were filmmaker James Lebrecht and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).

“I haven’t said anything about the Selma Blair situation up to this point. I was hoping that I would have a more eloquent statement than the following. I am heartbroken after seeing what she has posted online. I barely know how to use Instagram and don’t follow anyone daily,” Lebrecht wrote. “All of this took me completely by surprise. I want to be as clear as I can possibly be. I want to see a cease-fire immediately. I want the hostages freed immediately. I hate the Israeli government for what they have done. I deplore the killing of innocent people anywhere. Be precise, I deplore all killing.”

Blair’s statement on Tuesday concluded, “I raise my hand in humility and volunteer to break the chain. Those who know me, know that wherever I go, I try to create branches to hold onto, bridges to meet on for all marginalized communities. I am dedicated to tolerance and peace for all who want it – not hate. I apologize to those in the Muslim community who I offended with my words. I apologize to my friends. And I apologize to anyone I hurt. And I will do better. With appreciation, love and respect. Selma.”