Controversial Gaza Documentary 'Naza' to Screen Globally, Offered Free in Israel

The documentary film 'Naza' (NAZA), which sparked controversy in Israel following its win at the Venice Film Festival, will be released internationally in cinemas across 56 countries starting September 28. The filmmakers, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shor, in collaboration with The Guardian, which co-produced the film, have announced that it will also be made available for free online viewing indefinitely.

Furthermore, Abraham and Shor are offering Israeli cinemas the opportunity to screen the film at no cost. The decision for widespread free access, according to The Guardian, stems from the international interest generated by the film. The North American premiere is scheduled for the upcoming New York Film Festival.

Abraham, in his first public statement since the Venice win, stated that the film's accessibility online, expected in November, is intended to allow everyone to view the soldiers' testimonies. He acknowledged the significant demand to see the film and expressed hope for its broad reach. He also addressed the criticism in Israel, asserting that acknowledging atrocities in Gaza does not diminish the severity of the October 7th Hamas attack and that journalism and criticism are not acts of treason. Abraham affirmed that threats would not deter them, and they would continue to fight for the country's future.

Several Israeli cinema chains, including Hot Cinema and Cinema City, have stated they have not been approached and will not screen the film. The Haifa Cinematheque indicated it would consider the offer if received, while the Jerusalem and Tel Aviv Cinematheques have not yet responded.

'Naza' is based on testimonies from Israeli soldiers and intelligence personnel, some appearing anonymously, and addresses the IDF's operations in Gaza, raising difficult claims about civilian harm during the war. The IDF has rejected the film's assertions, stating it relies on unverifiable anonymous testimonies and that the military operates in accordance with international law, targeting only military objectives and taking measures to minimize civilian casualties. The IDF specifically denied a claim in the film about an approved strike with expected civilian casualties in the hundreds, calling it "completely false."