IDF Chief of Staff Vows Action Against 'Blood Libel' Film

IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi convened a high-level consultation on Sunday regarding the film "Naza," which he described as an attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the IDF and the State of Israel. The meeting included the Deputy Chief of Staff, heads of Operations and the Air Force, the Military Advocate General, the head of Unit 8200, and the IDF Spokesperson.

Kochavi asserted that the film is not a critique of the IDF or an attempt to find truth, but rather a deliberate distortion of reality based on "blood libels" and false accusations against soldiers and commanders. He characterized the film as a dangerous effort to deny Israel the legitimacy to defend itself against its enemies, thereby endangering IDF personnel.

"We will not allow IDF soldiers to be turned into targets through lies and blood libels," Kochavi stated, emphasizing the need for decisive action using all available legal, command, and public relations tools. He also stressed the importance of a broad national and international public relations effort involving the Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Justice, and the National Public Diplomacy Directorate.

Following the discussion, Kochavi ordered a series of measures to counter the film. A multi-organizational, multi-disciplinary team, led by the head of the Planning Directorate, will be established to develop strategies for addressing false claims against the IDF. The Military Advocate General was directed to explore legal actions against the film and its participants, particularly concerning the dissemination of false claims and potential implications for personal and national security. The investigation will also examine possible involvement in the leaking of classified materials used in the film's production and related information security aspects. Kochavi reiterated the IDF's commitment to using all means to protect its soldiers, commanders, and reputation.