Filming for the fifth season of the Israeli television series "Fauda" is underway, with upcoming scenes set to depict the October 7 Hamas-led massacre near the Gaza border — a production decision that has angered some residents of the area still reeling from the attack.
The scenes are scheduled to be filmed in communities near the southern Gaza border, where Hamas terrorists launched a surprise attack on October 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking roughly 250 hostages into Gaza.
Residents of the Eshkol Regional Council, one of the hardest-hit areas, were notified in advance about the filming. According to a message sent to locals, the shoot would “simulate security incidents,” including actors dressed in military and police uniforms, individuals in costumes resembling terrorists, police vehicles, pickup trucks and the sound of gunfire.
Despite the warning, some residents expressed outrage over the decision to film in such a sensitive location.
“This shows a total lack of sensitivity and consideration for citizens here who are still living with the trauma,” said one resident, who asked not to be named. “It could trigger flashbacks and other emotional distress. As someone who lives here and works with victims of the war, it’s disappointing, harmful and dangerous. It seems that publicity is now valued more than our lives.”
Another resident voiced concern for his child, saying, “It’s good they told us ahead of time, but what about my son who is terrified of gunfire? Why not film somewhere else and recreate the setting? I’m not sure we can cope with this.”
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A woman who recently returned to her home in the area added, “Our lives aren’t a TV show — this is our reality. They should find a different location for their series.”
The Eshkol Regional Council attempted to calm concerned residents, saying the scenes involving gunfire and combat would be filmed on side roads and that the activity would be minimally disruptive.
In a statement, the Fauda production team said the advance notice was meant to prevent panic and respect the community’s sensitivities.
“We are announcing this in advance out of respect for public sentiment — so people understand this is a filming operation and not a real security event,” the statement said. “This is our way of telling their story to the world.”