Netanyahu Slams Israeli Filmmakers Over 'War Crimes' Film

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a sharp condemnation on Monday against the Israeli filmmakers behind the documentary "Nezah," which was screened at the Venice Film Festival and portrays IDF soldiers as war criminals. Netanyahu described the film's reception with applause at the festival as "unbearable," especially when such accusations originate from within Israel.

In a video statement, Netanyahu stated, "We are fighting global antisemitic incitement, but when it comes from within us, it is simply unbearable." He linked the film to a series of what he called a "false and inflated narrative" against IDF soldiers, citing former IDF Chief of Staff Yair Golan's alleged statement that "we are killing babies."

Netanyahu revealed that the film's directors are Israeli and members of the Directors Guild, whose head recently resigned to join Benny Gantz's National Unity party. "Two Israeli directors who are members of the Directors Guild, whose head until a week ago, before he announced his resignation, is today a member of [Gantz's] party," Netanyahu said.

Consequently, the Prime Minister directly demanded that National Unity party leader Gadi Eisenkot cancel his surplus agreement with Yair Golan's party, issue a strong condemnation of the film, and remove Golan from his party's list. The film "Nezah" reportedly received applause at the Venice festival.