Shocking Documentary Exposes Ruthless Israeli Army Propaganda and Extreme Brutality in Gaza

A new and harrowing documentary titled “Israel’s Reel Extremism” has surfaced, shedding light on the disturbing transformation within Israeli society, especially in the wake of the ongoing Gaza conflict. 

Produced by Basement Films and distributed by Zeteo, an independent media platform founded by award-winning journalist Mehdi Hasan, this 40-minute film provides an unflinching examination of the brutal realities faced by Palestinians and the radicalization that has taken hold of Israeli society. 

One of the most shocking aspects of this film is the extensive use of social media by Israeli soldiers on the front lines. These soldiers have been broadcasting their experiences in Gaza, sharing images and videos that boast about acts of violence and humiliation against Palestinians. 

Right-wing politicians and military leaders claimed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was "the most moral army in the world," despite evidence to the contrary. This narrative has been used to justify aggressive military tactics and the dehumanization of Palestinians, reinforcing a culture where soldiers feel emboldened to share their actions online without fear of repercussions. 

In one video, a tank technician proudly describes how he crushed a Palestinian man visible through his viewfinder. These videos, some of which have garnered millions of views, depict soldiers engaging in the torture of captives, the destruction of vital infrastructure such as hospitals and universities, and even the deliberate tormenting of civilians. 

These disturbing images have been widely circulated and celebrated among Israelis, contributing to a terrifying narrative that has been largely overlooked by mainstream media. 

The documentary features an interview with Rom Carmi, an Israeli Army Reservist and social media influencer known as "barefoot_Rom." His TikTok videos from Gaza have become infamous, showcasing both the destruction of Gaza and the casual attitude with which these acts are committed. 

Carmi speaks candidly about the role of social media in the conflict, stating, "The fight is not just to fight. It's one of [them] is to film it. The Israeli army is understood. The problem [is that] there is a real battle in social media. They are very encouraged. They created content part of the propaganda war." 

Carmi also reflects on the use of controversial imagery, such as a widely circulated photo of a wounded and bound Palestinian captive. He argues that such images serve a strategic purpose, stating, "Even if he's in a torture situation, yeah, of course, because it's part of the war. And we want our enemy to see because we want our enemy to be scared [of] us." 

The documentary reveals, how Israeli society has become increasingly desensitized to violence, and many Israelis, particularly those aligned with right-wing ideologies, see the military's actions in Gaza as not only justified but necessary. 

This sentiment is propagated by radical groups like Tzav 9 and Mother’s March, who have actively blocked aid convoys to Gaza, arguing that such actions are justified until Israeli hostages are released. 

The documentary captures these activists in action, physically obstructing trucks carrying essential supplies, and even resorting to vandalism, such as ripping open bags of grain and setting trucks on fire. 

A significant portion of the Israeli public, around two-thirds according to one think tank, even opposes the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza, viewing it as potentially benefiting Hamas rather than helping innocent civilians. 

Naomi Klein, a prominent Canadian author, social activist, and filmmaker describes this documentary as “An extraordinary investigation that asks urgent questions.” 

The documentary notes that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other key figures, accusing them of war crimes. 

The film also highlights the stark contrast between the narrative presented by Israeli officials, who claim their military operations target Hamas, and the reality on the ground, where entire neighborhoods are decimated, and civilian casualties are staggering. 

The documentary presents chilling statistics: more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over a million people have been displaced from their homes in Gaza. 

The United Nations has reported that it could take up to 80 years to rebuild the 370,000 homes destroyed in the conflict. Yet, despite these grim realities, the majority of Israelis remain steadfast in their support for the military's actions, with some even believing that not enough force has been used. 

Gideon Levy, a prominent columnist for Haaretz, has called for viewers to watch the documentary Israel’s Reel Extremism, stating, “Watch this documentary and see Israel.”

Levy's work often highlights the human rights issues faced by Palestinians under Israeli occupation, and he has been recognized for his fearless reporting on these subjects despite facing significant backlash from various segments of Israeli society. 

Levy’s advocacy for Palestinian rights and his critical stance on Israeli policies have made him a polarizing figure, with some viewing him as a hero for shedding light on these issues, while others label him as anti-Israeli.