IDF Rejects Claims in 'Niz'a' Film, Defends Targeting Processes

The Israeli military has strongly refuted allegations presented in the controversial film "Niz'a" (Collateral), which has sparked significant criticism within the IDF. A senior officer involved in target identification and strikes asserted his confidence in the military's operational procedures, both during routine combat and the ongoing war. He stated, "I believe and trust the process we undertake in attacking targets... I was there at the decision points. I know how we approve a target, how we examine its effectiveness."

The officer defended the term "collateral damage," explaining it as a professional term intended to prevent harm to uninvolved individuals. "It is not a derogatory term, I am not ashamed of this word," he stated, emphasizing that potential collateral damage is meticulously assessed for every target according to policy, moral standards, and military value, aligning with the laws of war. He added that as a commander approving strikes, understanding the implications of collateral damage is crucial, and he is "proud and at peace with the operational processes we carry out in approving and striking targets."

Prior to any strike, all targets undergo legal review and are often individually approved by senior officers, including generals and the Chief of Staff. The process is extensively documented through digital means, documents, and observational data from various sensors and technologies, enabling the IDF to address any claims raised by the film. The officer acknowledged that mistakes and intelligence gaps have occurred, and that civilians have been harmed when militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah use them as human shields. However, he cited numerous instances where strikes were diverted at the last moment due to concerns about civilian casualties, stating, "I am proud of the people who diverted the crosshairs."

Regarding the use of artificial intelligence in target generation, the officer clarified that no target is attacked without human approval and a thorough examination of the strike area, population evacuation, and on-site observations. While AI assists in target identification, it is not an "blind tool" for attacks. Expressing frustration, the officer wished the filmmakers could witness the target approval process firsthand, including weekly discussions and the meticulous review involved.