Israeli filmmaker of 'NAZA' under scrutiny over longstanding ties to Hamas-linked activist

Investigative journalist Eitan Fischberger reported that Israeli filmmaker Yuval Avraham has a longstanding relationship with Hamas-linked Palestinian activist Ahmed Alnaouq. Avraham's film 'NAZA' won the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, drawing intense criticism from Israeli politicians and the IDF. Alnaouq serves as vice president of Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, designated by Israel as a terrorist organization.

Investigative journalist Eitan Fischberger reported Sunday that Israeli filmmaker Yuval Avraham has a longstanding relationship with Hamas-linked Palestinian activist Ahmed Alnaouq. Avraham has been in the headlines after his film 'NAZA' won the Special Jury Prize at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday. The film has received intense criticism from most Israeli politicians, and the IDF stated its categorical rejection of the film's allegations. Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar said he would seek to revoke Avraham and co-director Rachel Szor's Israeli citizenship, accusing them of committing an 'act of treason against the state.' Fischberger's criticism focused on Avraham himself, rather than his film. In 2019, Avraham reached out to Alnaouq to discuss what young people in the Gaza Strip think about politics in Gaza. The two created the Across the Wall initiative, which provides a platform for young Palestinians to write personal stories translated into Hebrew. Avraham has referred to Alnaouq as a 'close friend' and 'partner.' Alnaouq serves as vice president, treasurer, and outreach officer at Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, designated by Israel as a terrorist organization since 2015. Euro-Med is known for disseminating blood libels and conspiracy theories. Alnaouq's brother Ayman was eulogized by Hamas' Qassam Brigades after being killed in 2014.