IDF Investigates Leaked Materials for Gaza Documentary 'Nitzan'

The Israeli military has launched an investigation into the alleged leaking of classified materials used in the documentary film 'Nitzan' (also known as 'Side Effect'), which features testimonies from 24 IDF officers discussing procedures and systems they claim harm civilians in Gaza. Senior military officials have reportedly approached the Shin Bet security agency for assistance in the probe, anticipating that civilians may also be involved.

The film, produced by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, recently won the Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a lengthy standing ovation. The documentary's content has sparked significant anger within Israel.

In response to the controversy, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir convened a high-level security and command consultation. Participants included his deputy, the head of the Operations Directorate, the Military Advocate General, the commander of the Air Force, the head of Unit 8200, and the IDF spokesperson.

Following the meeting, Zamir ordered several actions. These include establishing a multi-organizational team to develop strategies for countering false claims against the IDF, directing the Military Advocate General to explore legal measures against the film and its creators for allegedly disseminating false claims detrimental to state and soldier security, and investigating potential breaches of information security and the possible leaking of classified materials.

The Shin Bet has indicated they will await a formal request from the IDF, which requires approval from the Military Advocate General and the Attorney General. Once these approvals are secured, the IDF expects the Shin Bet to cooperate with the investigation.