The cast, which features several prominent Arab and Palestinian actors including Alex Bakhri, Juna Suleiman, and Salim Dau, wrote a letter in which they explained their decision, according to Ynet.
"We are proud and stand behind our participation in the film of our friend and ally, Eran Kolirin," they wrote. "And yet we cannot ignore the contradiction that stems from the fact that the film was accepted to Cannes under the 'Israeli Film' Category."
The letter went on to condemn what they claim is Israel's policy in the Palestinian Territories.
Kolirin made a statement on Facebook saying that although he would prefer that they go to the festival to celebrate the art with him, he loves those people and "respect[s] their decision and their struggle".