Antisemitic Film Creator Vows Free Online Release Amid Backlash

Yuval Abraham, co-creator of the controversial film "Nezah," which has sparked significant public outcry in Israel, announced that the film will be made available for free online viewing in November. Abraham stated that this decision was made in conjunction with co-director Rachel Shore and The Guardian, which produced the film. He also mentioned that attempts were made to offer the film to Israeli cinemas for free screenings, hoping it would be shown domestically alongside international showings, citing a "huge demand."

Abraham defended the film against accusations, asserting it is based on three years of "comprehensive journalistic research" with "verified and cross-referenced" details. He expressed confidence that "the film will speak for itself and the truth will eventually come out."

Addressing claims of betrayal leveled against him in Israel, Abraham argued, "Journalism is not betrayal. Criticism is not betrayal. It is the duty of every citizen whose government commits crimes to know, and of every soldier who witnessed them to tell."

He emphasized that the film's depiction of events in Gaza does not diminish the atrocities of October 7th, stating, "The recognition of the horrors in Gaza does not diminish for a moment the heinous massacre of October 7th, for which Hamas is responsible, and which has no justification."

Despite facing threats of citizenship revocation and a difficult personal week, Abraham and Shore intend to return to Israel and continue their work, with Abraham stating, "What is certain: the threats will not help. It does not deter us."

The film "Nezah," which claims to be based on testimonies from 24 soldiers about the conduct of fighting in Gaza and IDF open-fire policies, alleges deliberate and systematic targeting of civilians in the Strip. It recently received a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival.