Documentary Source Claims He Was Paid to Exaggerate Civilian Casualties
A young man claiming to have been a source for the documentary film "Nazea" (Accidental Damage) has alleged in an interview with a private investigator that the filmmakers manipulated data and paid him to inflate casualty figures. The individual, interviewed by Shmulik Maman, stated that numbers like 400 or 500 civilian casualties were fabricated, and that he was offered "ten shekels for every additional person" mentioned to inflate the numbers. He claimed that the reality on the ground was significantly different, with the worst-case scenario being around 90 casualties, of which approximately 50% were Hamas terrorists. The source further criticized the film's data collection methods, questioning whether any attempt was made to verify figures with Palestinian health authorities.
He expressed regret for his participation, accusing the filmmakers and "extreme leftists" of being motivated solely by money and of selling out their country for an anti-Israeli ideology. The private investigator, Maman, stated he provided a platform for the young man's testimony without verifying its accuracy and while protecting his identity. Neither the interviewee nor the investigation office has provided concrete proof of his involvement or payment.
This revelation comes amid strong reactions from Israeli military leadership. Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi has ordered a review of potential legal actions against the film's creators, who won an award at the Venice Film Festival. Kochavi described the film as a deliberate attempt to harm the IDF and Israel's legitimacy, based on "blood libels, deliberate distortion of reality, and false and serious accusations." The military is also concerned about the potential use of classified or restricted information during the film's production and has requested the Shin Bet's assistance in the investigation. Particular attention is being paid to Unit 8200 due to its extensive connections with intelligence agencies and international bodies, with concerns about potential harm to its operations and personnel. The IDF is examining the identities of interviewees, especially if they are current or reserve soldiers, and will consider disciplinary action if classified information was leaked.
