Hamas calls for international investigation into violations revealed in ‘NAZA’ documentary

Hamas on Tuesday called for an independent international investigation into Israeli military targeting practices in Gaza presented in the documentary “NAZA.”

In a statement, Hamas said the film, which was screened at the Venice International Film Festival, included testimony from 24 Israeli military intelligence personnel and officers who had been involved in surveillance and targeting operations.

According to Hamas, the testimonies provide details about procedures used to select and strike targets in Gaza and include accounts concerning anticipated civilian casualties.

The movement said the documentary discusses the use of the term “NAZA” in relation to civilians expected to be killed in attacks and describes remote targeting and bombardment systems used during Israeli military operations.

Hamas argued that testimony from individuals who had worked within Israel’s military and security establishment warranted examination by independent international investigators and should be considered in investigations into possible violations of international law.

The group called on the International Criminal Court, United Nations bodies and international human rights organizations to review and document the testimony and other material presented in the film.

Hamas said the material should be examined as part of investigations into allegations of war crimes, genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.

The movement also pointed to the film’s reception at the Venice festival, saying the audience response demonstrated the impact of the testimony and the role documentary filmmaking can play in scrutinizing military conduct.

Hamas urged international institutions to use the material where relevant in accountability proceedings and to take measures to protect Palestinian civilians.