Israeli authorities have initiated a legal investigation into the documentary film “Naza,” accusing the production of inciting anti-Semitism and potentially committing treason. The probe was ordered by Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir following the release of the film, which presents allegations that the Israeli military routinely incorporated civilian casualty estimates into its targeting strategies during the conflict in Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the film on Monday, describing it as “shocking” and stating that it contributed to a broader wave of global anti-Semitic sentiment. “We are fighting global anti-Semitic incitement, and when it comes from within us it is intolerable,” Netanyahu said in a video message posted to Telegram. He criticized the fact that two Israeli directors were receiving applause at international film festivals for portraying the military as war criminals.
The documentary, created by Israeli journalists Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, premiered at the Venice Film Festival over the weekend. It received a 25-minute standing ovation and was awarded the Special Jury Prize. The film takes its title from a military acronym referring to expected collateral damage and features anonymous interviews with intelligence officers and soldiers who describe how targets were selected and how many civilian deaths were factored into attacks.
Military Chief Zamir characterized the film as an attack on the state rather than legitimate criticism or a pursuit of truth. He asserted that the content was based on “blood libels” and deliberate distortions of reality, leading him to instruct the Military Advocate General to examine potential legal measures against those involved. Zamir noted that the sources include members of the military and intelligence community whose identities remain hidden.
Culture Minister Miki Zohar has requested that authorities investigate how the film’s materials were obtained and whether the process constituted aiding the enemy during wartime. Zohar also asked the Interior Ministry to consider revoking the citizenship of Abraham and Szor on grounds of treason.
In his acceptance speech at Venice, Abraham emphasized the importance of the film being viewed by Israelis. “We believe that the denial of a crime is what helps it persist, and this is why it is especially important for us that Israelis watch this film; it is our country that is doing these crimes,” he said.
Gaza health authorities report that more than 73,700 Palestinians, the majority of whom are civilians, have been killed in the war, which has left much of the enclave in ruins.
A Venice prize and a treason probe in the same week? The irony is staggering. Why is truth-seeking treated as a crime now?
As an Israeli, I support the right to critique our military’s actions. Treason charges for journalism cross a dangerous line into authoritarianism.
The idea of revoking citizenship for a documentary is terrifying. This feels like a clear attempt to silence dissent rather than protect national security.