IDF Chief of Staff Slams Gaza Civilian Death Film as 'Blood Libel'

The Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has strongly condemned the documentary film "N.A. (Accidental Damage)" which alleges systematic and intentional killing of Palestinians during the war in Gaza. Halevi described the film, which won an award at the Venice Film Festival, as a deliberate attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the IDF and Israel, built on "blood libels, deliberate distortion of reality, and false and severe accusations against soldiers and commanders."

Speaking after a consultation on the film, Halevi stated that it "adopts narratives of Israel's enemies, slanders our soldiers and commanders, and seeks to portray the IDF as acting unlawfully on purpose." He asserted that the film is a dangerous attempt to strip Israel of its legitimacy to defend itself and endangers soldiers and commanders, vowing that the IDF will not allow its soldiers to be targeted with lies and blood libels. Halevi has ordered the formation of a multi-organizational team to develop strategies for combating false claims against the IDF and has instructed the Military Advocate General to explore legal actions against the film and its creators for spreading false accusations and potentially compromising the security of soldiers and the state. He also called for an examination of potential information security breaches and the possible leaking of classified materials used in the film's production.

The IDF Spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari, had previously requested the filmmakers, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, to allow IDF representatives to view the full film to respond factually to its claims. Hagari noted that based on the film's trailer, it presents difficult and false allegations that are distorted and detached from reality. He emphasized that the IDF is a values-based military operating according to international law and professional standards, especially since October 7th, and fully supports its soldiers and commanders.

The IDF's English response stated that the film relies on anonymous, unverifiable testimonies, misuses legal terms, and contains internal contradictions. It specifically addressed claims about intentional harm and 'genocide,' noting that unintentional harm from lawful attacks is distinct and that the term 'genocide' is misunderstood. The IDF reiterated its commitment to international law in Gaza, its efforts to minimize civilian harm, and its investigation of any specific suspicions of law violations. The military also clarified that decisions regarding strikes are made by humans, not AI.

The film has sparked public outcry in Israel, with some politicians calling the creators "traitors" and advocating for the revocation of their citizenship. Minister of Culture and Sports Miki Zohar announced his intention to seek the revocation of Abraham and Shore's citizenship for "betraying the country," citing the film's award as a "despicable" act fueled by self-hatred and a desire for applause from antisemites.