NAZA Documentary Sparks Global Controversy and Counter-Films

Key points

• The documentary 'NAZA,' directed by Israeli journalists Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September 2026, winning the Special Jury Prize and receiving a standing ovation.
• The film features 24 anonymous interviews with Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers, detailing the use of AI and surveillance in targeting civilians in Gaza, which the filmmakers describe as a systemic policy rather than isolated incidents.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the film as 'global antisemitic incitement,' while the IDF denied the claims, stating that strike decisions are made by humans, not AI, and that no strikes anticipated 500 civilian deaths.
• In response to the controversy, the Israeli government honored the creators of a counter-film, 'NAZA, The True Story,' with certificates of appreciation, praising it for defending the 'morality of IDF soldiers.'
• The documentary has sparked protests in the US, including at screenings in New York and Los Angeles, organized by the Israeli-American Council, who argue the film presents a one-sided narrative.

Background

The release of 'NAZA' follows a series of earlier reports in 2026 that highlighted the documentary's global impact and the intense political backlash it faced in Israel, including threats to strip the directors' citizenship. The film's release in 56 territories and its free streaming on The Guardian's website in November have intensified the debate over the conduct of the war in Gaza.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post and The Guardian emphasize the documentary's critical examination of Israeli military practices and the moral dilemmas faced by the soldiers. The Jerusalem Post highlights the Israeli government's response, including the counter-film and the IDF's denial of the allegations. The Hollywood Reporter focuses on the protests in the US, organized by the Israeli-American Council, who argue that the film presents a one-sided narrative and fails to acknowledge the events of October 7, 2023.

Why it matters

The controversy surrounding 'NAZA' underscores the ongoing debate over the conduct of the war in Gaza and the role of technology in modern warfare. The film's global release and the intense backlash it has faced highlight the polarized views on the conflict and the importance of media in shaping public opinion.

What to watch

The documentary is expected to continue its global release, with free streaming on The Guardian's website in November. The Israeli government's counter-film, 'NAZA, The True Story,' is likely to gain traction in Israel, while protests and debates in the US and other countries are expected to continue as the film's release progresses.