Protests Erupt Over Israeli Film 'Naza' Accusing IDF of AI War Crimes

For the second consecutive evening, dozens of protesters gathered outside the home of Rachel Shor, co-director of the film "Naza," in Savion. Demonstrators held signs reading "Betrayal of the Fallen Soldiers' Memory" and "Expel the Traitors," chanting "shame," "traitors," and "death penalty" at the filmmakers. Mordechai David, identified as a pro-government provocateur, was present and stated he and others were seeking the address of the parents of Yuval Avraham, another co-director of the controversial film. He vowed to pursue the filmmakers upon their return from abroad, according to The Times of Israel.

Sources familiar with the protest's organization, cited by Israel Hayom, indicated that activists and campaign staff from the "Otzma Yehudit" party were among the participants. The newspaper also reported, based on these sources, that social media messages inciting violence circulated hours before the demonstration. Police have increased their presence in the area.

The film "Naza" alleges that Israel systematically employed artificial intelligence to select targets during the war following the October 7th attacks, resulting in a high number of civilian deaths in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have denied these accusations. Despite the film being seen by few, it has sparked significant public debate. Many politicians have strongly criticized "Naza" and condemned its creators.

The Israeli Film Council has demanded an urgent screening of the film, with the Minister of Culture vowing to revoke citizenship for the creators of the "disgraceful" film. The council warned that withholding the film from professional bodies in Israel "strengthens the suspicion that this is a fabricated film serving Israel's enemies, primarily Hamas." The IDF has also requested the full version of "Naza" to address its criticisms directly.