Netanyahu Pushes Bills to Revoke Citizenship and Hike Damages for 'Defaming' IDF Soldiers Over 'NAZA' Film

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to introduce two bills targeting individuals accused of defaming Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, explicitly citing backlash against the documentary 'NAZA.' The measures would allow revocation of citizenship for those who 'defame' soldiers and increase statutory defamation damages twentyfold. Netanyahu stated in a video message that such actions have 'no place among us,' linking the proposal to the film's portrayal of IDF operations in Gaza.[1][2]

The documentary 'NAZA,' directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Special Jury Prize. It features anonymous testimonies from 24 Israeli military and intelligence personnel alleging AI-assisted targeting systems that knowingly accepted high civilian casualties, including approvals for strikes killing up to 500 civilians to eliminate one target. The film draws on prior reporting by outlets like +972 Magazine and The Guardian.[3][4]

Culture Minister Miki Zohar publicly called for revoking the directors' citizenship, accusing them of 'treason against the state' and 'self-hatred' for harming Israel's image. The IDF has rejected the film's allegations as distortions and 'blood libels.' Far-right protests have targeted the filmmakers' families, and military lawyers are reportedly reviewing legal options.[5][6]

President Isaac Herzog described citizenship revocation proposals as having 'no chance' legally. The bills require parliamentary approval and would face significant legal hurdles under existing citizenship laws, which allow revocation only in narrow cases like treason, subject to judicial review.[7]