NAZA: Israeli embassies in UK and US promote rival documentary to challenge Gaza genocide allegations

What Happened

Israeli embassies in the United States and the United Kingdom promoted a rival documentary titled "Naza: The Real Story" on X, nearly a month after the release of the original NAZA, which examines Israeli military operations in Gaza. The embassies said the film is "setting the record straight" and claims it offers a firsthand account from senior Israeli military commanders and intelligence officers involved in Israel's war on Gaza. The film's website states the provider is Three Musketeers Production, described as "a company in formation", with directors unnamed "for their safety"; it is claimed to have been filmed on rooftops in Tel Aviv, runs 49 minutes, is available in 17 languages, and lists a release date of 20 September 2026 with theatrical showings. The original NAZA, directed by Israeli journalists Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, won the Special Jury Prize, and received a 25-minute standing ovation. It examines AI-powered systems used in Israel's war on Gaza and features interviews with 24 anonymous Israeli military and intelligence insiders. Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar called the film "despicable" and said he would act to revoke the filmmakers' citizenship; Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced two bills targeting those who "defame" the military; and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir ordered legal action against the filmmakers with Shin Bet, according to Israeli media. Dozens of far-right Israelis gathered outside Szor's family home on 16 September demanding she be hanged.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The promotion of a counter-documentary by official Israeli embassies shows a state-backed information-warfare response to a film that raises genocide allegations and critiques IDF targeting systems. The original NAZA's festival success and the subsequent official backlash—including proposed citizenship revocation laws, Shin Bet involvement, and violent protests—highlight escalating pressure on Israeli whistleblowers and journalists, at a time when international legal bodies are scrutinizing Israeli military conduct. The dispute over competing narratives may shape public and legal opinion regarding the Gaza war.

Watch For

Monitor whether "Naza: The Real Story" is actually released in theaters on 20 September 2026 and whether Israeli embassies continue promotion. Watch for Knesset progress on Netanyahu's two bills, any legal actions against Abraham and Szor by the IDF Chief of Staff or Shin Bet, and further protests or threats outside filmmakers' homes. Also note responses from international film bodies, UN officials, or legal experts to the original NAZA and the official counter-campaign.