IDF Southern Command Chief Rejects Claims in 'Farha' Film

Major General Yניב עשור, commander of the IDF's Southern Command, has publicly refuted claims made in the film 'Farha,' which has garnered attention following its screening at the Venice Film Festival. The film reportedly depicts the Israeli military as systematically killing civilians in Gaza, a portrayal עשור strongly condemned during a ceremony marking the start of the Hebrew year in the Eshkol Regional Council.

Addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, עשור stated that the IDF operates with a commitment to distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants, contrasting this with Hamas's alleged use of civilians as human shields. He asserted that those seeking to damage Israel's reputation internationally are attempting to sow doubt and undermine national unity, but he expressed confidence that such efforts would fail.

"Against false claims, we will present facts; to difficult questions, we will answer honestly," עשור declared. He also acknowledged the importance of self-examination within the military, stating, "When a failure is discovered among us, we will investigate, learn, and correct. Faith in the righteousness of our path requires this of us as well. This is not a declaration of our perfection, but a commitment that binds us in every order and every decision."

Regarding current operations, עשור explained that the IDF is working within Gaza to protect Israeli communities and dismantle Hamas's infrastructure, including tunnels and production facilities, to prevent its resurgence. He concluded by assuring local leaders and residents of the western Negev that the military's mission is to ensure their safety and enable them to live and thrive securely.