IDF Probes Classified Document Leak for Venice Film Festival Award Winner

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has launched an investigation into potential leaks of classified documents used in the production of the documentary "NAZA," which received the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. The IDF has requested assistance from the Shin Bet, Israel's internal security agency, to determine if classified materials were provided to the filmmakers by individuals no longer serving in the military. The Shin Bet has stated it awaits an official request from the IDF, which must be preceded by authorization from the chief military prosecutor and the attorney general, before it can participate in the probe.

The documentary "NAZA," which translates to "collateral damage" in Hebrew, features anonymous testimonies from 24 individuals described as current or former IDF members. These individuals allege that specific procedures and systems were employed to strike civilians in the Gaza Strip. The film's controversial content prompted IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to convene a meeting with senior military officials, including his deputy, the head of the Operations Directorate, the chief military prosecutor, and commanders from the Air Force and Unit 8200.

Following the meeting, Zamir ordered the establishment of an inter-agency team to develop responses to what the military deems false accusations against the IDF and its soldiers. He also directed an examination of legal actions against the film and its creators, alongside the investigation into the alleged classified document leaks.