IDF Rejects 'Incidental Damage' Film Allegations as Baseless

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued a detailed response to accusations made in the documentary film "Incidental Damage" (NezA), which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The IDF categorically rejects all claims presented in the film, asserting that it is based on anonymous testimonies from individuals whose identities cannot be verified and whose service in the IDF, if any, is impossible to confirm. The military stated that some of the allegations in the film pertain to matters beyond the knowledge of junior-ranking soldiers.

The film, created by Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shore in collaboration with The Guardian, features testimonies from 24 Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers regarding the IDF's conduct in Gaza, target selection, and civilian casualties. The IDF's response, released by its English-language spokesperson, highlights that the film relies on uncorroborated anonymous sources. The military also pointed out that the film incorrectly uses legal terminology and contains internal contradictions.

The IDF further clarified that claims of intentional harm or 'genocide' stemming from lawful attacks are absurd and demonstrate a misunderstanding of these terms. Regarding allegations of using artificial intelligence in targeting, the IDF emphasized that human personnel exclusively make decisions about strike selection and approval, and that operations are conducted according to military directives, not by AI.

The military reiterated its commitment to operating in Gaza in accordance with international law, aiming to protect Israeli civilians and target terrorist organizations like Hamas. The IDF stated it makes unprecedented efforts to minimize civilian harm, contrasting this with Hamas's practice of operating from civilian areas. The IDF also affirmed its obligation to investigate any suspected violations of law by soldiers through its independent enforcement mechanisms, noting that soldiers are mandated to report such breaches.

Culture Minister Miki Zohar reacted strongly to the film's award, calling it "despicable" and a "betrayal of the country." He expressed his intention to seek the revocation of the creators' Israeli citizenship. In response, filmmaker Yuval Avraham urged critics to watch the film first, emphasizing that the soldiers' testimonies are the most important aspect and that the film aims to reach the Israeli public to confront actions in Gaza.