Award-Winning Gaza Documentary 'Naza' to Screen Globally, Become Free Online

The controversial Israeli documentary 'Naza' (NAZA), which recently won a jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, is set to be distributed internationally in 56 countries starting September 28. Following its theatrical release, the film, produced by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore in collaboration with The Guardian, will be made available for free online viewing indefinitely.

The filmmakers and The Guardian are also offering Israeli cinemas the opportunity to screen the film at no cost. According to The Guardian, this decision stems from the significant international interest in the documentary. "Shortly after the cinema screenings conclude worldwide, we will make 'Naza' available for free viewing, as part of our commitment to independent and fearless journalism," a statement read.

The film's North American premiere is scheduled for the upcoming New York Film Festival. Director Yuval Abraham addressed the distribution plans in a social media post, stating that the decision to offer free online access was made to ensure everyone could watch the film and the soldiers' testimonies. He indicated the film would be available online in November and urged Israeli cinemas to screen it, calling it a "brave decision in the face of great violence aimed at its concealment."

Abraham also responded to the sharp criticism the film has faced in Israel, asserting that acknowledging atrocities in Gaza does not diminish the severity of the October 7th Hamas attack. He emphasized that "journalism is not treason. Criticism is not treason," and stated that threats would not deter him and his co-director. The film is based on testimonies from Israeli soldiers and intelligence personnel, some of whom appear anonymously, and raises difficult claims regarding civilian harm during the war in Gaza.

In Israel, the film sparked controversy, with Culture Minister Miki Zohar requesting an examination of the filmmakers' citizenship and asking the head of the Shin Bet security agency to investigate the sources and witnesses. The IDF has refuted the film's claims, stating it relies on unverified anonymous testimonies and that the military operates in accordance with international law, targeting only military objectives and taking measures to minimize civilian harm. The IDF specifically denied a claim in the film about approving an attack with expected civilian casualties of 500, calling it "completely false."