Iran has selected “Land of Angels,” directed by Babak Khajehpasha and produced by Manouchehr Mohammadi, as its official submission for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards.

Set against the backdrop of the war in Gaza, “Land of Angels” is a drama centered on the lives of children amid the devastation of conflict. The film stars Syrian actress Sulaf Fawakherji and explores themes of hope and resilience against the backdrop of the war in Gaza.

The film was selected by the committee responsible for choosing Iran’s official submission for the Academy Awards after reviewing eligible entries.

Among those present at the selection committee meeting were Iraj Tahmasb, Farhad Tohidi, Mahmoud Kalari, Seyed Alireza Hosseini and Mohammad Reza Tashakkori.

Being selected as Iran’s official submission means that “Land of Angels” has been submitted for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category, formerly known as the Best Foreign Language Film category. The selection does not guarantee a place among the final Oscar nominees; the film must go through the Academy’s subsequent selection and voting process.