The production team behind the documentary NAZA, which examines Israeli military targeting policies in Gaza, announced they conducted interviews with more than 100 sources familiar with the military systems employed during the conflict. The filmmakers disclosed this information in response to a statement issued by the Israel Defense Forces challenging the film’s accuracy.
The IDF’s rebuttal, based on statements by the filmmakers and a review by an attending representative, alleged the documentary contained significant factual errors and claimed it relied primarily on interviews with approximately two dozen military personnel who possessed only partial understanding of the target approval process. The Israeli military emphasized that its rules of engagement require distinction between combatants and civilians, prohibit intentional targeting of civilians, and mandate measures to reduce civilian casualties. The IDF also confirmed using artificial intelligence to recommend potential targets while maintaining that final strike decisions were authorized by officers and acknowledged appropriate consideration of civilian casualty risks.
The production team, represented by the Guardian, responded by providing additional context about their verification methodology. They stated that the military sources interviewed held various ranks and roles across multiple stages of the targeting process, including intelligence, operations, and final authorization functions. The verification process incorporated leaked classified materials, detailed examination of specific strikes, and corroboration from additional confidential journalistic sources not featured in the film.
The documentary and resulting dispute have generated significant controversy in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously called for the filmmakers’ Israeli citizenship to be revoked, and the directors have faced death threats. Several international news organizations, including the New York Times, Washington Post, and Associated Press, have subsequently reported on Israeli use of AI-driven targeting systems and relaxed civilian protection safeguards. The contentions in NAZA have also been addressed by the UN’s commission of inquiry and research organizations studying armed conflict casualties.
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