Israeli Minister Demands Citizenship Revocation for Documentary Filmmakers

Israeli Minister of Culture and Sport Miki Zohar has formally requested that the Ministry of Interior consider revoking the Israeli citizenship of the directors of the documentary film "Nezah." The film, which won a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, has sparked controversy for its alleged depiction of testimonies from anonymous soldiers of Unit 8200 and Military Intelligence. These testimonies reportedly describe involvement in "systems behind mass killings in Gaza."

Zohar's official request, addressed to the Director-General of the Ministry of Interior, Israel Ozana, seeks an examination of whether the filmmakers, Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shore, engaged in acts constituting treason or aiding the enemy during wartime in their acquisition or publication of materials for the film. The minister cited freedom of expression but stated it cannot shield actions of betrayal or aiding the enemy.

The controversy intensified following the film's premiere, which reportedly included the waving of Palestinian flags and prolonged applause. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have strongly refuted one of the film's central claims, labeling it a "complete lie" with no factual basis, stating that the described attack was never planned, approved, or executed.

Minister Zohar stated that Israeli citizenship signifies a fundamental bond between a citizen and the state. He asserted that if the filmmakers are found to have crossed a line, Israel must act to revoke their citizenship. This formal request follows earlier threats made by Zohar against the filmmakers on social media.