The documentary film “NAZA,” focusing on military operations in the Gaza Strip, drew massive attention at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday, where it emerged as a leading contender for the Golden Lion. Directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, the film examines mechanisms behind Israeli airstrikes through anonymous interviews with 24 individuals described by the filmmakers as Israeli intelligence personnel, according to reporting.
Venice Film Festival Reception and Audience Response
“NAZA” premiered at the Venice Film Festival to substantial acclaim, positioning the project as a strong competitor for the festival’s top prize, the Golden Lion. According to media reports, festival attendees delivered an extended ovation lasting approximately 25 minutes following the screening.
The documentary centers on nighttime interviews conducted with 24 anonymous sources on rooftops in Tel Aviv. The interviewees share detailed accounts regarding military operations and intelligence procedures connected to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Israeli Military Response and Denial of AI Use
In an official statement, the Israel Defense Forces rejected the documentary’s allegations and criticized its reliance on anonymous sources. An army spokesperson stated that the film’s claims rest on unverified identities, making it impossible to confirm whether the individuals served in the military or held the capacities they claim.
The spokesperson added that the statements featured in the documentary address national and military strategies exceeding the operational scope typical of lower-ranking soldiers. Furthermore, the military spokesperson asserted that the Hamas organization deliberately embeds its infrastructure within civilian areas.
Addressing specific allegations regarding technology, the army spokesperson denied that artificial intelligence dictates targeting decisions. According to the military statement, human personnel make all choices concerning the selection and authorization of airstrikes.
The military also noted that established protocols require any soldier who witnesses a legal violation to report the incident so authorities can determine whether to launch a formal investigation, an obligation that applies to all service members, including any individuals interviewed for the film.
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