IDF Chief of Staff, Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir instructed the Military Advocate General, Maj.-Gen. Itai Ofir to open an investigation into the NAZA documentary on Tuesday, after tensions over the film’s subject matter ignited in Israel.
The IDF has also asked the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) to assist with its investigation into the film, according to a Ynet report.
The Shin Bet has reportedly not yet agreed to join the investigation and told the IDF it is awaiting a formal request before getting involved.
According to Ynet, the request will only be submitted after Ofir reaches a decision on the investigation in coordination with Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara.
Investigation could result in legal action against filmmakers
On Monday, Zamir announced his intention to order a review of the film, suggesting that legal action could be taken against the directors of NAZA, filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor.
The military investigation would also probe information security concerns, including the possibility that classified material was leaked and used in the film.
The investigation would also involve officials examining the identities of those interviewed for the film and assessing whether any remain active in the IDF or reserve forces.
Military officials said they would consider taking legal action if they find that active-duty personnel had shared unauthorized information with the filmmakers. The investigation will reportedly focus on the IDF’s Unit 8200 because a security leak could harm its operations and personnel.
Southern Command chief defends IDF conduct amid NAZA criticism
In response to criticism of Israel over the film, Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor defended the IDF’s conduct during the Gaza war, emphasizing the importance of the military examining its own actions, the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit shared in a statement Tuesday.
Speaking at a Rosh Hashanah ceremony attended by senior commanders and local authority leaders in the western Negev, Asor said, “In this war, we carry a torch of light and good, and we are fighting a great war against darkness and evil.”
According to the IDF statement, Asor said the military would respond to criticism by presenting facts and examining failures when they arise. “In the face of false claims, we will present facts; to difficult questions, we will respond honestly; and when a failure is revealed, we will examine, learn, and correct,” he said.
Asor added that the IDF’s belief in the justice of its cause requires it to review its decisions and correct mistakes when necessary, saying this reflects a commitment rather than a claim of perfection.
IDF commander says Hamas operates from within Gazan society
Addressing Hamas’ role in Gaza, Asor said, “Hamas prepared itself in the heart of a population that supports it, sympathizes with it, and identifies with it.” He added that Hamas is not a “foreign entity” in Gaza, but instead developed within the society there, while noting that some residents oppose the group but cannot influence events.
Asor said the IDF seeks to distinguish between combatants and civilians and works to minimize harm to those not involved in hostilities. He added that Israeli forces are continuing operations near the Yellow Line to prevent Hamas from rebuilding its capabilities, including targeting tunnels, weapons, and weapons-production infrastructure.