IDF Spokesperson Denies Claims in Venice Award-Winning Film 'Naza'

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson vehemently denied claims made in the documentary film 'Naza' (NAZA), which recently won an award at the Venice International Film Festival. The film alleges that an attack was planned or approved in Gaza with an expected toll of approximately 500 civilian casualties. The IDF spokesperson stated on X, formerly Twitter, that this claim is 'completely false.'

According to the IDF, no attack was ever planned, approved, or carried out where the military anticipated such a high number of civilian deaths, or even close to it. The spokesperson also noted that no credible claim has been raised during the war suggesting an IDF strike caused anywhere near 500 civilian fatalities.

The IDF further questioned the filmmakers' decision to publish the allegation, stating that they could not verify it and that no substantial supporting evidence exists. Additionally, the IDF stated that the identity, military service, and role of the interviewee in the film cannot be independently verified.

'Naza,' directed by Oscar-winning Israelis Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, received the Grand Jury Prize at the Venice festival. The film's synopsis indicates it explores the "mechanisms behind mass killing in Gaza" based on testimonies from 24 IDF soldiers and officers. The film's title is derived from the military acronym for "collateral damage."

Director Yuval Abraham addressed criticism of the film in Israel during his acceptance speech, noting that Israeli politicians and journalists attacked the film without seeing it. He stated the film aims to present the reality behind the fighting and urged audiences to watch it to understand the detailed facts presented.