Israeli Culture Minister Seeks Citizenship Revocation for 'Naza' Filmmakers

Israel's Minister of Culture and Sport, Miki Zohar, has called for the revocation of Israeli citizenship for the creators of the documentary film "Naza," which recently received a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival. Zohar vehemently condemned the film, accusing its two directors of harming their country and labeling their work an "act of treason." He stated his intention to act swiftly to strip them of their Israeli citizenship.

Zohar also defended his reform of the film industry, asserting that Israeli public funds should not finance productions he deems hostile to the state or the Israeli military. The documentary "Naza," based on interviews with 24 Israeli soldiers and officers, reportedly claims some of these soldiers participated in planning or using systems during the war in Gaza. The film further alleges that Israeli military operations systematically result in a significant number of civilian casualties, accusations that Israel rejects.

The Israeli military has contested the documentary's reliability, noting its reliance on anonymous testimonies whose identities and military roles cannot be verified. Despite the controversy, "Naza" received an enthusiastic reception and a lengthy standing ovation at its Venice premiere. The film's title, "Naza," is an Israeli military acronym referring to "collateral damage."

Following the award, co-director Yuval Abraham responded to criticism from Israel, accusing some politicians and journalists of condemning the film without having seen it. Abraham urged Israeli, European, and American audiences to watch the documentary, believing Israelis must confront the accusations it makes regarding operations in Gaza. The Venice award and Zohar's statements have ignited a new controversy in Israel, centering on accusations about the conduct of the war, the military's rejection of these claims, and the debate over artistic criticism during conflict.