Hamas has called for an independent international investigation into Israeli military targeting practices in Gaza presented in the documentary NAZA, which recently premiered at the Venice International Film Festival.
In a statement on Tuesday, Hamas said the film features testimony from 24 Israeli military intelligence personnel and officers who were involved in surveillance and targeting operations. According to the group, their accounts describe how targets were selected and struck in Gaza, including situations in which expected civilian casualties were reportedly taken into consideration.
What the Documentary Reveals
Directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, NAZA is an 80-minute documentary filmed in secret over three years. The film features anonymous interviews with Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers discussing surveillance systems, target selection and military operations in Gaza.
The title refers to a Hebrew military acronym used in relation to the number of civilians expected to be killed in an attack. The filmmakers say the documentary examines how anticipated civilian deaths were incorporated into decisions surrounding military strikes.
The film builds on investigative reporting previously published by The Guardian, +972 Magazine and Local Call.
From Venice Recognition to Controversy
NAZA received the Special Jury Prize at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival after its premiere drew a roughly 25-minute standing ovation and was awarded the Special Jury Prize. The film was the only documentary in this year’s main competition.
Its reception in Venice was followed by strong criticism from Israeli officials. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the documentary, while Israel’s military rejected its allegations, saying the film relies on anonymous sources whose identities and involvement cannot be independently verified. The military has also said that final decisions on strikes are made by human personnel, despite the film’s discussion of AI-assisted targeting systems.
Filmmakers Face Citizenship Threats
The controversy also escalated after Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar said he would seek to revoke the Israeli citizenship of Abraham and Szor, accusing them of treason. Netanyahu has also backed proposed legislation that could revoke citizenship and increase penalties related to defaming Israeli soldiers.
The threats have prompted support for the filmmakers from members of the international film community, while more than 1,500 Israeli filmmakers have reportedly signed a petition defending Abraham and Szor and their right to make the documentary.
Hamas Calls for Further Investigation
Hamas said the testimonies featured in NAZA should be examined by independent international investigators and considered alongside investigations into possible violations of international law.
The group specifically called on the International Criminal Court, United Nations bodies and international human rights organizations to review and document the testimony and other material presented in the film.
The call comes as NAZA continues to draw attention to allegations surrounding Israel’s military conduct in Gaza, while Israeli authorities reject the film’s claims.
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