NAZA Directors Interview 24 Israeli Soldiers on Gaza

Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, co-directors of the 2025 Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land," are presenting their new film "NAZA" at the Venice Film Festival. "NAZA" delves into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, featuring interviews with 24 Israeli soldiers who served in Gaza. The film was shot under conditions of "total secrecy" on the rooftops of Tel Aviv, according to Abraham and Szor. The directors stated that the documentary "shows in detail the systems behind Israel’s calculated mass killing" in Gaza, a claim made within the context of their artistic and journalistic endeavor. Abraham and Szor emphasized the importance of these interviews, noting that "there is still so much denial of what is happening" in Gaza, highlighting a perceived lack of public acknowledgment or understanding of the realities of the conflict within Israel. The decision to conduct these interviews in secret was driven by the sensitive nature of the subject matter and the potential repercussions for the soldiers involved. The film aims to provide a platform for these soldiers to share their experiences and perspectives, offering a critical look at the military operations and their broader implications. "NAZA" builds upon the critical acclaim of "No Other Land," which also addressed the occupation and its impact. The co-directors expressed a desire to foster a more informed public discourse by presenting these firsthand accounts. The interviews were conducted over a period of time, with the directors meticulously gathering testimonies that they believe are crucial for understanding the ongoing situation. The film's presentation at the Venice Film Festival marks a significant moment for its international release and potential impact on global perceptions of the conflict. Abraham and Szor are known for their commitment to tackling difficult and often controversial subjects through their filmmaking, seeking to provoke thought and encourage dialogue. The inclusion of 24 soldiers' testimonies in "NAZA" represents a substantial effort to capture a range of experiences and viewpoints from within the Israeli military apparatus involved in operations in Gaza. The directors' assertion of "calculated mass killing" suggests a focus on systemic issues and deliberate actions rather than isolated incidents, positioning the film as a critical examination of Israeli military policy and its consequences in the Palestinian territory. The film's premiere at Venice positions it within a prominent international cinematic context, where it is expected to generate discussion among critics, audiences, and policymakers.