Israeli Documentary 'NAZA' Sparks Controversy and Criticism from Government

<figure> <img alt="A person stands in front of a graffiti mural depicting Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, directors of the documentary “NAZA.”" src="https://platform.vox.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/09/gettyimages-2295024106.jpg?quality=90&amp;strip=all&amp;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> A graffiti mural depicting Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, directors of the documentary NAZA. | Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">At the Venice Film Festival earlier this month, the documentary <em>NAZA</em> received a 25-minute standing ovation. In Israel, it is a topic of significant discussion, despite few having seen it.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The film, created by Israeli filmmakers Rachel Szor and Yuval Abraham, is set on the rooftops of Tel Aviv, where 24 anonymous Israeli intelligence agents and soldiers discuss their actions in Gaza.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a review by Bilge Ebiri in <a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/review-naza-is-one-of-the-most-important-films-of-our-time.html">Vulture</a>, one officer recounts an incident where a building was destroyed with 500 people inside to target one individual, while another interviewee states that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Following its premiere, the film has faced severe criticism from the Israeli government, with at least one politician calling for the filmmakers' citizenship to be revoked.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Shany Littman, a journalist for Haaretz, has been covering the film's reception in Israel. In a conversation with <em>Today, Explained</em> co-host Noel King, she discussed the reactions surrounding the film.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Have you seen the documentary <em>NAZA</em>?</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">I have not. I asked the PR person of the movie to send me a link, but it is not possible. Given the significant backlash, they are likely reconsidering their distribution strategy.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Is it safe to assume that most people in Israel have not been able to see the movie?</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Yes, that is correct.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>What has been the reaction in Israel regarding this movie?</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">There is a wide range of criticism from various political perspectives. Some claim the film lacks verification, as it features anonymous witnesses. However, many believe this presents an opportunity for pro-Palestinian and anti-Israeli sentiments to attack Israel. Israelis across the political spectrum are concerned about how the world perceives them currently.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Are there any voices in Israel supporting the filmmakers?</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Yes, some individuals support Yuval and Rachel, affirming their right to criticize and investigate. As a liberal society, we should be able to engage in self-examination and criticism.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>What has the Israeli government officially stated about this film?</strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>“There’s a really long history of films that were criticized, especially by different culture ministers. But I haven’t seen anything like this, like what is happening now. This is really frightening.”</p></blockquote></figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The culture minister was the first to respond, suggesting that the filmmakers' Israeli nationality should be revoked. There is a long history of films facing criticism, but the current situation is unprecedented and alarming.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">I have seen social media clips where individuals invite others to take revenge on the filmmakers, indicating a dangerous atmosphere for them in Israel.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">It seems unlikely they will return to Israel soon, as the situation has escalated. I published an article supporting them in Haaretz, and my mother is concerned for my safety due to the backlash.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Are you concerned for the filmmakers' safety if they return?</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Yes, especially with upcoming elections. Many Israelis view this moment as critical for determining whether the country can maintain its democratic values. The current climate is tense and precarious, and it is crucial for the filmmakers to remain safe.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This is a very tense and fragile moment, and I hope they will avoid actions that could endanger them.</p>