Culture Minister Asks Shin Bet to Investigate Documentary Filmmakers

Israel's Minister of Culture and Sport, Miki Zohar, has escalated his actions against the creators of the documentary film "NAZA" (Nezek Agabi, meaning incidental damage), Yoval Avraham and Rachel Shore. Following his previous request to the Population and Immigration Authority to consider revoking their citizenship, Zohar sent a letter to Shin Bet head David Zini. In the letter, Zohar demanded an investigation into the sources of information and security materials used in the film's production, as well as the circumstances under which the creators obtained them.

Zohar emphasized in his letter that the creators' claims, asserting the film is based on testimonies from Israeli military and intelligence personnel, rely on anonymous sources whose reliability cannot be verified. The minister expressed serious concern that the materials may have been fabricated or taken out of context. He requested the Shin Bet examine whether classified operational information was misused and whether enemy elements, including Hamas, were involved in transferring the data.

The film "NAZA," which won a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, documents 24 anonymous testimonies from Israeli officers and soldiers. It presents serious allegations regarding target approval processes, the use of artificial intelligence systems, and the IDF's attack policies in the Gaza Strip.

The film's screening has ignited a widespread controversy in Israel. The IDF has vehemently rejected the claims, calling them a false and distorted blood libel. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has instructed the military prosecution to explore legal actions. While the film received prolonged applause and international critical acclaim in Venice, its creators faced sharp condemnation in Israel from various sectors. However, they also received support from hundreds of filmmakers and legal professionals who signed petitions defending freedom of expression.

Minister Zohar stated that when anonymous sources are used to disseminate serious and false accusations against Israel and the IDF during wartime, it is imperative to investigate who is behind them and trace the origin of the materials and any involvement of enemy elements in their transfer.