IDF Rejects "Naza" Documentary Claims as Distorted and Misleading

The Israeli military has issued a strong rebuttal to the documentary "Naza," which examines targeting mechanisms and strike planning during the Gaza war, accusing its creators of presenting a "distorted, misleading, and unfair picture" of the IDF's decision-making process. The military stated that the film relies heavily on anonymous sources who discussed early stages of targeting, such as intelligence gathering, without a complete understanding of the later phases leading to final strike decisions. The IDF emphasized that target selection involves multiple stages where initial assessments regarding civilian presence and mitigation efforts can change.

The IDF specifically denied claims that artificial intelligence independently generated tens of thousands of human targets, asserting that AI does not determine whether a target is classified as such or if a strike will occur. Instead, human analysts identify targets under specific procedures, with operational commanders making the final strike decisions. The military criticized the documentary for lacking military orders, documents, or other evidence to support its claims, noting that some strikes discussed lacked specific details on targets, dates, locations, or casualties, rendering the allegations unverifiable.

The IDF also stated that the filmmakers did not submit their claims for review before publication and refused to provide the IDF with a copy of the film after its public release, despite requests. Regarding allegations of firing near humanitarian aid sites, the military clarified that rules of engagement permit firing only at combatants or those posing an immediate threat. The IDF rejected the film's linking of personal testimony to claims of "genocide," stating that international law requires specific intent to destroy a group, which it claims was not present.

The military reiterated its objectives in Gaza are to dismantle Hamas's military and governmental capabilities and secure the return of hostages, not to target Palestinian civilians. It highlighted measures taken to minimize civilian harm, including issuing warnings, canceling strikes, and facilitating aid. The IDF accused the film of omitting the context of the war, including the October 7th attack and Hamas's alleged use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes. The IDF concluded by stating that "the tragic consequences of war do not justify distorting facts" and that it acted "humanely" throughout the conflict.