NAZA film-makers address threats at documentary’s New York City premiere

Key Points:

• The documentary NAZA, directed by Oscar-winning filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, exposes Israel’s use of AI-powered systems for targeted killings of Palestinians in Gaza, based on testimonies from 24 anonymous Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers.
• The film premiered in New York amid protests and threats from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has called for revoking the filmmakers' citizenship and condemned the film as propaganda.
• NAZA has received critical acclaim, including a standing ovation and special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, but has sparked fierce backlash in Israel, with accusations of treason and calls for violence against the filmmakers.
• The filmmakers defended their use of anonymous sources as essential for revealing ongoing crimes hidden by the Israeli state, emphasizing the role of investigative journalism in exposing the truth despite political pressure.
• The film’s US premiere highlighted the connection between American military aid to Israel and the documented actions in Gaza, with the filmmakers urging audiences to reject the weaponization of empathy and the perpetuation of violence.