IDF Rejects Gaza Film Allegations, Cites Lack of Evidence

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have issued a strong rebuttal to claims made in the documentary film "NAZA" (Collateral Losses), which premiered at the Venice Film Festival and alleges "genocide" by Israeli soldiers in Gaza. The IDF stated they "categorically reject" the film's assertions, though they have not viewed the film itself, responding only to reports of its release. The military highlighted that the film is based on anonymous testimonies from individuals whose identities and connections to the army are unverified, making it impossible to ascertain their roles or involvement in the events described.

The IDF's statement pointed out inconsistencies within the film's claims, noting that some discussions allegedly involve national and military strategy beyond the scope of low-level soldiers. Furthermore, the military cited instances where alleged interviewees from military intelligence could not have participated in the described situations. The statement also criticized the misuse of legal terminology by non-professionals and internal contradictions, such as the claim that unintentional damage from legitimate attacks was deliberate or constituted "genocide" without proper understanding of these terms.

The IDF reiterated that its operations in Gaza are conducted to protect Israeli civilians from terrorist groups, in accordance with international law and the laws of war. They emphasized their commitment to minimizing civilian harm, contrasting this with Hamas's alleged practice of embedding fighters and military assets within civilian infrastructure. The military also affirmed that any suspicions of violations by soldiers are investigated by independent law enforcement agencies, and those found responsible are held accountable. Soldiers are obligated to report potential violations to their command for investigation, a requirement that extends to individuals who provided interviews for the film.

Additionally, the IDF refuted the film's suggestion of AI being used for target selection, asserting that all targeting decisions are made by human soldiers following army directives. The film, produced by The Guardian and directed by Oscar-winning Israelis Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, focuses on the war in Gaza.