The documentary “NAZA” is set to be released in theaters across more than 50 countries before becoming available for free on The Guardian’s website as part of the media outlet’s commitment to promoting independent journalism.
“NAZA” received the Jury Special Award at the recent Venice Film Festival, where it was applauded for 25 minutes during its screening.
The title of the documentary derives from a military term used in Israel that refers to anticipated “collateral damage” in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The film features anonymous interviews with intelligence officers and soldiers involved in the conflict, highlighting the systematic destruction of civilian homes, the disregard for international and humanitarian laws, and a general atmosphere of “hatred” towards Palestinians, according to reports from AFP and Reuters.
Israeli Government Accusations of ‘Treason’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside military officials and far-right politicians, has accused directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor of “treason against the state.”
The Prime Minister stated his intention to pursue legislation allowing for the revocation of citizenship for individuals who “denigrate” and “defame” the State of Israel.
“We created this film out of a sense of obligation to use our position as Israelis to examine the systems behind the mass killing of Palestinian civilians for which our country is responsible,” the directors said on Thursday.
“Threats from the Israeli government to strip us of our citizenship, as well as death threats, do not change this, and they will not stop the film. We thank our colleagues for their solidarity and look forward to distributing NAZA worldwide soon,” they added.
‘NAZA’ to Screen in 55 Countries and Territories
The documentary, produced by The Guardian, has also been showcased at the San Sebastian and Bologna film festivals and will debut on the North American stage in New York this Saturday. Beginning October 9, it will arrive in Los Angeles and other American cities before a national release.
A theatrical distribution is planned in partnership with MK2 Films across 55 countries and territories. The Guardian noted it is exploring ways for “NAZA” to be accessible in Palestinian territories as well.
Following its theatrical run, the documentary will be published on The Guardian’s website.
“NAZA is based on rigorous journalism conducted over the past three years,” stated Harry Davies, investigative correspondent at The Guardian and one of the documentary’s producers.
