Israeli Documentary NAZA Sparks Political Storm Over Gaza Coverage

The British-produced documentary NAZA, directed by Israeli journalists Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, has become highly controversial following its premiere at the 2026 Venice Film Festival, where it won the Special Jury Prize and a record 24.5-minute standing ovation.

The 80-minute film examines Israel's military targeting practices in Gaza through interviews with 24 anonymous Israeli military and intelligence personnel. It explores the use of AI systems in target selection and how expected civilian casualties were considered in strike decisions. The title refers to an Israeli military term for anticipated collateral damage.

Israeli officials have strongly criticized the documentary. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir called it a "blood libel" and "deliberate distortion of reality." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for legislation to revoke citizenship of those who "defame" Israeli soldiers, citing the NAZA controversy.