Israeli Military Denounces Gaza Documentary 'Naza' Amid Venice Award Win

The Israeli military spokesperson, Brigadier General Ido Nehushtan, has issued a strong condemnation of the documentary film 'Naza,' which recently won the Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. Nehushtan stated that while the full film has not yet been released, promotional materials reveal "serious and false allegations" against the Israeli military and its personnel. He asserted that these claims are inaccurate and presented in a distorted, detached manner.

Nehushtan emphasized the Israeli military's commitment to being an ethical force operating under international law and professional standards, a principle he affirmed would continue even in complex combat situations. To facilitate a fact-based discussion, he invited the filmmakers to allow military representatives to view the complete film, enabling a comprehensive response to its allegations.

The spokesperson stressed that public discourse should be grounded in facts, not "false presentations and baseless slander." He highlighted the military's continuous efforts since October 7th to defend the state and its citizens, expressing full support for soldiers and commanders and rejecting the "false accusations" leveled against them. He added that those who have sacrificed and defended the country deserve support and protection.

'Naza,' directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, explores "the mechanisms behind mass killings in Gaza," drawing on testimonies from 24 Israeli soldiers and officers. The film's title, 'Naza,' is derived from the Hebrew military acronym for "collateral damage." One officer, speaking anonymously in the film, described "systematic mass killing."