New documentary on Israel killing civilians in Gaza won global plaudits. But it is facing intense backlash at home., tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/world/israel/israeli-gaza-documentary-naza-sparks-backlash-criminal-charge-threats-rcna597870)

This story centers on the documentary titled “NAZA”, directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, and the severe political and legal firestorm it ignited inside Israel following its international premiere.

The Documentary

• Core Subject: The film investigates the Israeli military’s bombardment of Gaza and its use of AI-powered targeting systems. It features whistleblowing testimonies from 24 Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers describing loose strike authorizations that resulted in mass civilian casualties.

• The Title: “NAZA” is derived from an internal military acronym euphemistically referring to the anticipated number of civilian deaths permitted or expected during targeted airstrikes.

International Reception

• The film debuted to major acclaim on the global festival circuit, including at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a record-breaking 25-minute standing ovation and won a Special Jury Prize.

• International filmmakers, human rights advocates, and festival organizers praised the documentary for its investigative reporting and courage.

Backlash and Threats at Home

• Accusations of Treason: Israeli political leaders reacted with fierce condemnation. Culture Minister Miki Zohar publicly accused the filmmakers of committing “treason against the state” to gain international applause, calling on authorities to revoke the directors’ Israeli citizenship.

• Threats of Criminal Charges: Officials called for formal investigations into how classified intelligence materials and testimonies were gathered, arguing that disseminating such information during an active war could amount to aiding the enemy.

• Condemnation by Officials: High-ranking government ministers and military officials strongly rejected the film’s findings, characterizing the testimonies as deliberate distortions, blood libels, and an attack on Israel’s armed forces.

• Support and Concerns Over Retaliation: In response to threats against Abraham and Szor, over 1,500 Israeli film and cultural professionals, along with prominent international figures, signed statements defending the directors, warning that state-led vilification and legal intimidation represent a dangerous escalation against freedom of the press and artistic expression.