Hamas Urges International Court to Use Controversial Film 'Naza' Against Israel

Hamas has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague to utilize evidence presented in the documentary film 'Naza' (Collateral Damage), which recently received an award at the Venice Film Festival. The Palestinian militant group stated that the testimonies of 24 Israeli soldiers from Unit 8200, featured in the film, should be incorporated into the ICC's ongoing investigation into the Gaza war. Hamas described the film's content as a stimulus for justice and retribution for victims, asserting it would ensure accountability for war crimes and genocide.

The film, directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shor, was met with 25-minute standing ovations at the Venice festival, which Hamas interpreted as a sign of its profound impact and a refutation of Israeli denial efforts. This reaction comes amidst strong condemnation from Israel. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), characterized 'Naza' as a baseless 'blood libel' intended to distort reality and falsely accuse IDF soldiers and commanders. He argued the film undermines Israel's legitimacy and security.

Revelations indicate that Israel was caught off guard by the film's release. The Israeli Embassy in Rome had alerted the Foreign Ministry a month prior to its participation in the Venice festival and attempted to block its screening through various channels, citing late submission. However, festival organizers rejected these efforts. Furthermore, Israeli authorities failed to obtain an advance copy or transcript of the film, with the IDF's press office only reviewing it after its screening. An Israeli cultural attaché attended the premiere and provided a report to the press office.

The IDF's press office publicly requested a copy of the film from the directors to formulate a response, with a senior Israeli official suggesting this move highlighted the filmmakers' lack of intent to seek an official Israeli reaction. The article also provides context on ongoing legal proceedings in The Hague, including South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the ICC's case against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

'The Guardian,' a partner in the film's production, defended 'Naza,' calling Abraham and Shor 'brave journalists' and asserting the film's evidence is truthful and based on over three years of investigation. The newspaper stated it would vigorously defend the film and its team against any attacks or censorship attempts.