The documentary “NAZA” offers a stark examination of the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) collateral damage in Gaza, presenting a chilling perspective on the human cost of military operations. Directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, the film features interviews with military personnel who describe their roles in a dispassionate manner, revealing the grim realities behind the statistics of war.

Opening with an unnamed military systems operator speaking from a Tel Aviv rooftop, the film’s mission statement is clear: “We have to describe things as they really are.” This anonymity underscores the risks involved in discussing such sensitive topics in the current climate. The operator, along with 24 other technicians and intelligence officers, shares insights into their experiences, highlighting the chilling normalization of violence within military operations.

Understanding Collateral Damage

The title “NAZA” is a portmanteau of Hebrew words for “collateral damage,” reflecting the film’s focus on the human toll of military strategies. The documentary reveals that the IDF often considers civilian casualties as an acceptable price for eliminating military targets, with estimates suggesting that the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 70,000. The film’s structure is divided into three chapters, each exploring different facets of this complex issue.

In its first chapter, “NAZA” delves into the intelligence processes that lead to targeting decisions. The filmmakers reveal that the IDF relies on an AI program named Lavender, which predicts potential threats based on phone usage patterns. Despite a margin of error as high as 15%, operators express a disturbing sense of comfort in allowing AI to make life-and-death decisions.

The Mechanics of Execution

The second chapter shifts focus to the execution of military campaigns, detailing how operatives track targets through audio surveillance. The film chillingly illustrates how the phrase “Daddy’s home” triggers the order to strike, emphasizing the emotional detachment that can accompany such operations. The portrayal of these actions as akin to playing a video game serves to highlight the desensitization to violence that can occur in high-tech warfare.

In the final chapter, titled “Bibi’s Department,” the film examines the political implications of these military strategies, with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s presence felt throughout. The documentary critiques the broader societal complicity in these actions, questioning who truly benefits from the ongoing conflict.

A Reflection on Identity and Morality

Both directors, Jewish-Israeli millennials, grapple with the moral complexities of their heritage and the historical context of their nation. “NAZA” serves as a reflective piece that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the cost of security and the ethical implications of military actions. The film’s imagery of Tel Aviv’s rooftops juxtaposed with the realities of war serves as a poignant reminder of the moral ambiguity that permeates the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

As “NAZA” continues to make waves in the documentary circuit, it stands as a powerful commentary on the intersection of technology, warfare, and human life, urging audiences to consider the true meaning of collateral damage. For more insights, you can read the full review on TheWrap.