Israeli Documentary 'N.Z.A.' Features Soldiers' Shocking War Crime Allegations

A new Israeli documentary, "N.Z.A." (Accidental Damage), premiered at the 83rd Venice Film Festival, presenting harrowing testimonies from 24 members of the IDF's Unit 8200. Filmed on Tel Aviv rooftops during the Gaza war, the film explores the Israeli military's 'accidental damage' policy, focusing on alleged intentional killings and the use of artificial intelligence in targeting decisions. Soldiers describe how AI recommendations, based on phone surveillance, led to the deaths of individuals and their families, with one interviewee stating, "Intelligence personnel were concerned about the use of intelligence, but were willing to take a risk." The film reveals initial anger and a desire to "flatten Gaza" after the October 7th attacks, with some believing "there are no uninvolved people in Gaza." However, as the war progressed, interviewees expressed guilt, describing actions as "intentional killing" and "genocide," with one stating, "We slaughtered through snipers people in line for food."

The filmmakers, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, stated at a press conference that the film aims to combat silence and denial surrounding civilian casualties. Abraham noted, "Silence sometimes makes you complicit," adding that hearing from officers who operated the killing systems makes denying these alleged crimes more difficult. Shore emphasized that the criticism extends beyond Israel to Europe and the US, urging governments to pressure Israel to stop the actions depicted.

The documentary includes footage of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wartime statements, which the filmmakers suggest take on an ironic and chilling meaning when juxtaposed with the soldiers' testimonies. The film is based on investigative reports published between 2023 and 2025 by Abraham in Israeli and international publications, including "+972 Magazine" and "The Guardian," which is also involved in the film's production. Jonathan Glazer, director of "The Zone of Interest," is among the film's producers.

Festival director Alberto Barbera explained that "N.Z.A." was added late to the competition to avoid its political themes overshadowing other films. He described the documentary as groundbreaking, featuring authentic and verified testimonies gathered over three years, calling the accounts "devastating."