Dutch Cinema to Screen Controversial "NezA" Documentary on October 7

A cinema in Delft, Netherlands, will screen the documentary "NezA" on October 7, the third anniversary of the Hamas attack. The film, by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, which has sparked significant controversy in Israel, is described as detailing "the systems behind the calculated mass killing of Palestinians in Gaza by Israel" since the war began. The documentary premiered at the Venice Film Festival, receiving a 25-minute standing ovation and a special jury prize.

"NezA," an acronym for "accidental damage," was filmed on Tel Aviv rooftops and features anonymous testimonies from 24 Israeli soldiers and intelligence personnel. It has not yet been released in Israel. The screening date, October 7, coincides with the anniversary of the Hamas massacre.

Amid rising threats against the filmmakers, dozens of right-wing activists protested outside Rachel Shore's parents' home in Savion on Wednesday evening. Activist groups circulated images of Shore and Abraham labeled "Wanted Traitors" and called for public support for the demonstration, with signs reading "We denounce the traitors among us."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he has instructed the advancement of legislation to revoke citizenship from individuals who slander IDF soldiers. The IDF Chief of Staff has also directed the military advocate general to examine legal actions against the film and its creators, despite not having seen it himself.

However, Israeli public relations professionals involved in IDF and Foreign Ministry efforts have advised a de-escalation strategy, fearing that attacking the filmmakers could lead to accusations of Israel silencing dissent. Internal recommendations suggest minimizing public discourse on the film, as it has not generated significant international media attention or prompted reactions from foreign governments. The concern is that focusing on the filmmakers creates a strong backlash, portraying Israel as attempting to suppress criticism.

In solidarity with Abraham and Shore, over a thousand Israeli filmmakers, including Ari Folman and Shlomi Elkabetz, signed a petition supporting the duo. They stated that "the primary role of art and journalism is to hold a mirror up to the society in which they exist." Abraham urged the public to watch the film, stating, "It is important for our society to look at the actions in Gaza. We will do everything to distribute the film as widely as possible in Israel. I ask all the people attacking us now, who deny what is in the film, watch it."