"In a moment of carelessness, I unwittingly blurred the lines between Muslims and Radical Islamists, a grievous mistake that has unintentionally wounded countless hearts, and for this, I am profoundly remorseful," the actress confessed on Instagram. Selma Blair tendered an apology, facing scrutiny over her controversial remarks against Islam in a video concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict last week.
In a heartfelt post on Tuesday, the actress wrote, "This is a time of profound sorrow and distress for many across the globe, but it is also a moment to learn and appreciate the weight of our words. Responding to a post by Abraham Hamra, I spoke out against two congress members opposing the ban on Hamas terrorists entering the US. However, in my haste, I erroneously equated Muslims with Radical Islamists and fundamentalists, a blunder that has deeply hurt those I never intended to offend, and I sincerely apologize. Upon realizing my error, I promptly deleted the comment."
"These days, hatred and misinformation spread like wildfire," Blair continued. "This time, it was sparked by my own words. I acknowledge my fault in this instance and understand how my statement has understandably distressed the Muslim community. I cherish and admire all communities that strive for peace, across the world. It was my Muslim friends who enlightened me and showed me the right path. I am committed to spreading their love and understanding further. We cannot let ignorance and anger be our undoing."
After her inflammatory comment on a Feb. 2 Instagram video by Abraham Hamra, who appeared to defend the Jewish community following the Hamas attacks, the actress from "Cruel Intentions" faced swift backlash on social media. Her deleted comment read, "Thank you so much. Deport all these terrorist sympathizers. Islam has devastated Muslim countries, and now they come here to corrupt minds. They know they are deceitful. Twisted excuses. May they face their just desserts."
Among those condemning the actress on X, the former Twitter, were filmmaker James Lebrecht and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). "I had refrained from commenting on the Selma Blair situation until now. I had hoped for a more articulate response, but I am devastated by her online post. I'm hardly adept at Instagram and don't follow anyone regularly," Lebrecht wrote. "This has shocked me to the core. I demand an immediate ceasefire and the prompt release of hostages. I abhor the Israeli government's actions. I condemn the killing of innocents anywhere. Let me be clear, I condemn all killing."
Concluding her statement on Tuesday, Blair said, "I raise my hand in humility, ready to break the cycle of misunderstanding. Those who know me understand that wherever I go, I strive to create bonds of solidarity, bridges of understanding for all marginalized communities. I am committed to fostering tolerance and peace for all who desire it, not hatred. I offer my sincerest apologies to the Muslim community for my offensive words. I apologize to my friends. I apologize to anyone I have hurt. And I will strive to do better. With gratitude, love, and respect, Selma."
