Netanyahu Criticizes Film on IDF Conduct Amid Election Campaign

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has entered the fray surrounding the film "Nezah," which reportedly addresses the IDF's "collateral damage" policy and rules of engagement. In a short social media video, Netanyahu transitioned from expressing deep shock at the film to directly addressing former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, who is running against him in the upcoming elections, and former deputy chief of staff Yair Golan. The article suggests that during election periods, Israel's focus narrows from foreign policy to campaign tactics.

The author admits to not having seen the film or its evidence but questions whether a public discussion on the IDF's use of force is possible, especially after three years of war. Senior officers reportedly acknowledge instances where soldiers may have violated international law, but they generally deny this was a result of policy or direct orders from above. The article argues that the IDF's policies should be thoroughly reviewed using existing mechanisms like the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and the Ministerial Committee on Political-Security Affairs, which are supposed to oversee such matters and foreign relations.

A draft report from the State Comptroller reportedly found no discussions on public diplomacy during the first eight months of the war, nor did Netanyahu bring up Israel's global image for discussion in the cabinet. The article posits that a state commission of inquiry is needed not only for the events leading up to October 7th but also for the prolonged war that followed, acknowledging the strain on soldiers, the military, and the Israeli economy.

During a recent conference in Washington, D.C., attendees expressed confusion regarding Israel's policies in Gaza and Iran, questioning the lack of control over the situation. U.S. officials on both sides of the political spectrum are reportedly concerned about the situation in the territories and "Jewish terrorism," questioning if the current reality reflects the Israeli government's policy. The article also references another film by Yuval Abraham, "No Other Land," which won an Oscar and dealt with the situation in the territories.