Ex-Hostage Liri Albag Slams "NAZA" Filmmakers, Calls for Expulsion
Former Israeli hostage Liri Albag has launched a scathing attack on the Israeli documentary "NAZA," which examines the conduct of the war in Gaza. Albag accused the filmmakers, Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shor, of "selling out their own people" and demanded their expulsion from Israel.
In an Instagram post, Albag directly addressed Yuval Avraham, questioning his actions on October 7th. She stated that if he had been near the Gaza border that day, "no terrorist would have stopped to say: 'Leave him alone, he's fine, don't hurt him.'" She further speculated if he would have joined the "struggle for the liberation of Palestine" and harmed his own people.
Albag described the filmmakers' actions as "disgusting" and unforgivable, accusing them of betraying Israelis to those who wish them dead. She questioned their right to Israeli citizenship and called for their expulsion from the country.
The controversy follows the film's premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a special jury prize. "NAZA" features anonymous testimonies from members of the Israeli military and intelligence services, alleging the army used AI-assisted systems to select targets in Gaza and accepted significant civilian casualties in some strikes.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have categorically denied several accusations in the film. The military asserts that strike decisions are made by human personnel, not AI, and disputes a claim that a strike was planned anticipating the deaths of 500 civilians.
Filmmakers Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shor defend their work, with Avraham stating that testimonies and cases in the documentary were verified. The film was made in partnership with The Guardian.
Albag joins other Israeli figures who have strongly criticized "NAZA," which has sparked significant controversy in Israel. However, over 700 Israeli film professionals have signed a petition supporting the filmmakers, denouncing the campaign against them as potentially endangering their safety.
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