Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, renowned Israeli filmmakers, have unveiled their latest documentary, 'Naza', at the Venice Film Festival. This powerful film delves into the disturbing practices of the Israeli military in Gaza, shedding light on the targeting of civilian homes and the lives of those affected. The documentary is a follow-up to their previous work, 'No Other Land', which won the Best Documentary Academy Award in 2025. 'Naza' is based on extensive interviews with 24 Israeli intelligence officers and soldiers, revealing the harsh realities of the conflict. The title itself is a stark reminder of the Israeli military's approach, where each potential death is assigned a number, dehumanizing the lives of those at risk.
One of the most striking revelations in the film is the targeting of family homes in Gaza. Abraham emphasizes that every building and home in Gaza has a designated number, indicating the military's systematic approach to identifying and eliminating targets. This raises questions about the ethical implications of such practices, especially when civilians, including children, are at risk. The film also explores the allegations that Israel is intentionally destroying homes in Gaza to create a wasteland, preventing Palestinians from returning. This perspective highlights the broader impact of the conflict on the Palestinian population.
The anonymous testimonies in the film are particularly chilling, as they reveal the soldiers' involvement in a system they feel powerless to challenge. Abraham draws parallels to the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of drawing universal lessons from history to oppose dehumanization and killing. The soldiers' own accounts of witnessing the dehumanization of civilians and their reflections on historical events like the Holocaust are thought-provoking. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, challenging the audience to consider the broader implications of the conflict.
The documentary also contrasts the lives of people in Tel Aviv with those in Gaza, showcasing the stark differences in their experiences. Abraham explains that the targeting of civilian homes is not based on military activity but on the mere presence of individuals in these homes. This raises concerns about the potential for widespread civilian casualties and the normalization of such actions by the Israeli military. The film highlights the lack of coverage and critical questioning from mainstream Israeli media, which Abraham believes contributes to the normalization of genocidal ideas.
'Naza' serves as a powerful call to action, urging viewers to reflect on the ethical and moral implications of the Israeli military's actions in Gaza. The filmmakers hope that the film's impact will extend beyond the festival, reaching a wider audience and sparking important conversations. As the world premiere takes place amidst growing condemnation of Israel's military campaign, 'Naza' emerges as a crucial piece of documentation, shedding light on the complexities and controversies surrounding the conflict in Gaza.
