Dutch Cinema to Screen 'NAZA' Documentary on October 7 Anniversary

The "Lumen" cinema in Delft, Netherlands, will screen the documentary "NAZA" on October 7, marking the third anniversary of the Hamas attack. The film, by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shor, is described as detailing "the systems behind Israel's mass intentional killing of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip" since the war began. "NAZA" recently premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a 25-minute standing ovation and a special jury prize. Filmed at night on Tel Aviv rooftops, the documentary is based on anonymous testimonies from 24 Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers. The film has not yet been released in Israel. Amidst escalating threats against its creators, dozens of right-wing activists demonstrated outside the parents' home of Rachel Shor in Savion, distributing "Wanted: Traitors" posters and calling for action against the filmmakers. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his intention to advance legislation revoking citizenship for those who disparage IDF soldiers. The IDF Chief of Staff has also directed the military prosecutor's office to explore legal action against the film and its creators, though he has not seen it himself. However, Israeli professional bodies involved in public diplomacy for the IDF and the Foreign Ministry have advised a shift in strategy. They recommend downplaying the controversy to avoid accusations of Israel attempting to silence the filmmakers. Internal communications suggest that excessive attention to the film and its creators could backfire, leading to accusations of restricting free speech, especially since the film has not generated significant international press or governmental scrutiny. Concurrently, over a thousand Israeli filmmakers have signed a petition supporting Abraham and Shor, stating that "the main role of art and journalism is to be a mirror for the society in which they exist." Following the Venice award, Abraham urged the public to watch the film, emphasizing its importance for Israeli society to examine actions in Gaza and calling on critics to view it before condemning it.