IDF Chief of Staff Denounces Anti-Israel Film as Blood Libel

The Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, has strongly condemned the anti-Israel film "Nezah," calling it a "blood libel" and a narrative promoted by "haters of Israel." Halevi stated that the film is a deliberate attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the IDF and the State of Israel, asserting that the military operates in accordance with international law and its own values, striving to minimize harm to uninvolved civilians.

In response to the film's release and its recent award at the Venice Film Festival, Halevi announced several measures. These include establishing a multi-organizational team to develop strategies for countering false claims against the IDF and its soldiers, and directing the Military Advocate General to explore legal actions against those involved in the film due to the dissemination of false allegations that could endanger soldiers and national security. The IDF is also investigating the potential leak of classified materials used in the film's production.

The film, created by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shore, has drawn widespread criticism within Israel. It alleges "calculated mass murder" of Gaza residents by Israeli soldiers. Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar attacked the filmmakers, calling their actions a betrayal of the country and vowing to explore revoking their Israeli citizenship. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit also issued a statement in English, calling the film's claims "an absolute lie" and stating that the alleged attack depicted was never planned, approved, or carried out.