Concern among parents: the horror video is circulating online. The shocking film of the horrific massacres and killings of residents and soldiers by Hamas terrorists has been shown in recent days to Knesset members, foreign correspondents and the Hollywood industry. The IDF Spokesperson's Office is not willing to release the full film in order for Israelis to watch it, for various reasons, including those of public opinion.
However, parts of the video appear to have found themselves circulating online, with people who watched the video claiming that it is the official video. Watching it can cause tremendous harm for young children. In recent hours, messages have been circulating online from parents calling to prevent their children from watching the film, and that it can be identified by a photograph of the Israeli flag with a 47MIN caption referring to its length.
According to one of the messages: "The horror video of October 7, edited by the IDF Spokesperson, is already on social networks. This is an uncensored and unblurred horror video that adults can't see, let alone children. It can be a lifelong trauma for them. We need to pay attention and talk to the children, not to open any such video, and certainly not to transmit it."
Another read: "It starts with a picture of a blue Star of David and says in English The next 45 minutes, so you'll recognize it instantly in the first frame. There's it on TikTok for sure. Adults are also asked very, very much to avoid. This is a real danger of developing a post-traumatic reaction in adults and children. A deep scar on the psyche. Be safe and secure."
Students of Kibbutz Erez study at the social high school in Mitzpe Ramon, Photo: Photo: Dror Israel
The education system is currently dealing with a tremendous challenge – providing a mental and emotional response to all those students who witnessed the atrocities, whose parents were murdered in front of their eyes, their friends kidnapped, and so on. Added to all this are the same students who have been exposed to horrific videos online since the day of the massacre – videos that can cause anxiety, post-trauma and more. Some parents have even called for the removal of popular apps like TikTok and Instagram.
An IDF spokesperson said: "Contrary to reports, the 'horror film' did not leak. The film is screened on a limited basis for decision makers, media entities and influencers in Israel and around the world, subject to strict conditions and accompanied by an IDF representative or authorized entity on his behalf.
The screening of the film is intended to create legitimacy for the IDF's activity and to introduce the world to the events of the October 7th massacre. The participants in the screening undertake to comply with the viewing conditions and sign a document in which they undertake not to film or distribute any part of the film.
We reiterate our request to the public to refrain from spreading false rumors and from forwarding and opening links claiming to show the film."
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