Filmmakers Respond to Israeli Backlash, Vow to Release Gaza Doc Online

Creators Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore have responded to a fierce backlash in Israel over their documentary "No Other Land," announcing plans to make the film widely accessible. The documentary, which has garnered international attention after winning a jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, will be released in 56 countries starting September 28 and will be available for free online viewing in November. Abraham stated that the decision to offer the film freely online was due to its public interest and importance, allowing everyone to view it and the soldiers' testimonies.

The controversy intensified after Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar condemned the film as an act of "betrayal" and threatened to revoke the filmmakers' citizenship. In response to these threats, Abraham asserted that they would not be deterred and would continue to fight for the country's future upon their return to Israel. He also urged soldiers who witnessed similar events to share their stories, emphasizing that journalism and criticism are not acts of betrayal but a civic duty.

Abraham addressed the criticism directly, stating that acknowledging atrocities in Gaza does not diminish the horrific Hamas-led October 7th massacre, which the film also addresses and for which there is no justification. He expressed that the public discourse signifies a positive and healthy crack in the wall of denial, despite the significant personal cost.

In addition to the online release, Abraham and Shore have offered to screen the film for free at Israeli cinemas. A further screening is scheduled for the New York Film Festival this weekend. Minister Zohar has reportedly asked Israeli cinemas not to screen the film.