Culture Minister Asks Shin Bet to Probe Hamas Involvement in Film Materials

Israeli Minister of Culture and Sport Miki Zohar has formally requested that the head of the Shin Bet security agency, David Barnea, investigate the origins of materials used in the documentary film "NezA." Zohar specifically asked for an examination into whether "enemy elements," including the terrorist organization Hamas, were involved in providing these materials to the filmmakers, Yuval Avraham and Rachel Shorey.

This inquiry follows Zohar's earlier request to the Ministry of Interior and the Population and Immigration Authority to explore revoking the filmmakers' Israeli citizenship, citing a breach of loyalty to the state. Zohar referenced Section 11 of the Nationality Law, which allows for the cancellation of citizenship under certain conditions for disloyalty.

In his letter to the Shin Bet chief, Zohar emphasized the need for a thorough factual investigation into the source of the materials, how they were obtained, and the identities of those who supplied them. The filmmakers assert their work is based on testimonies from Israeli military and intelligence personnel. However, Zohar contends that the sources are concealed and testimonies are anonymous, making it impossible to verify their identities, reliability, or how they gained access to the information presented.

Zohar highlighted that the IDF has strongly refuted claims made in the film, stating they lack factual basis. He expressed concern that some testimonies might have been "fabricated, distorted, or taken out of context." The minister stressed that the investigation is not aimed at scrutinizing political stances or cinematic creation itself, but rather at uncovering potential criminal or security breaches related to the acquisition, transfer, or publication of the film's content.

He requested that any findings suggesting a breach of loyalty, security offense, or other criminal act be transferred to the relevant authorities for legal action. "When anonymous sources are used to spread serious and false accusations against the State of Israel and the IDF during wartime, it is imperative to investigate who is behind them," Zohar stated, reiterating his call for the Shin Bet to determine the source of the materials and any potential enemy involvement.