Netanyahu Proposes Striking Citizenship for Defaming IDF Soldiers

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that the government will advance two legislative proposals aimed at combating the defamation of IDF soldiers and the State of Israel internationally. The first bill, to be advanced by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, seeks to increase by twentyfold the compensation for defamation without proof of damage, raising it to one million shekels. The second bill, to be advanced by the Interior Ministry, would enable the revocation of citizenship for individuals who defame IDF soldiers and the State of Israel abroad.

These proposals, dubbed "Niz'a Laws" by Netanyahu, are being fast-tracked in response to a recent documentary film titled "Niz'a," which screened at the Venice Film Festival and garnered awards. The film features testimonies from IDF soldiers alleging misconduct during the war in Gaza. Netanyahu condemned the film, stating that while Israel fights global antisemitism, "when it comes from us, it is simply unbearable."

Netanyahu also referenced other public figures, including former MK Yair Golan and an unnamed "Patzarit" (likely referring to a specific individual or role), for alleged defamation of soldiers. He explicitly stated the intention behind the legislation: "We will revoke citizenship from anyone who defames IDF soldiers abroad, and hit them hard in their pocket."

The legislative proposals will be immediately submitted to the Ministerial Committee on Legislation and subsequently brought for a vote in the Knesset. As government-backed bills, they do not require opposition support in the initial committee stage during the election recess. However, further legislative progress, including second and third readings, will necessitate opposition consent.

The proposed law to revoke citizenship is expected to face significant legal debate, as current law allows for citizenship cancellation under specific circumstances but lacks a general mechanism for revoking it due to defamation of soldiers or the state. Defining the scope of such defamation, the threshold for revocation, and the procedural requirements will be crucial. The bill to raise defamation damages without proof of harm is also anticipated to spark discussion regarding civil liability and freedom of expression.