Louis Theroux Documentary on Israeli Settlements Earns International Emmy Nomination

Louis Theroux’s documentary The Settlers, which investigates the Israeli settler movement in the occupied West Bank alongside its ambitions for Gaza, has secured a nomination for an International Emmy Award.

Produced by Mindhouse Productions, the British film was announced on Wednesday as one of four contenders competing for the documentary prize at the 54th International Emmy Awards. It faces competition from entries originating in Mexico, Singapore, and France.

Captured on location in Israel and the occupied West Bank in 2024, The Settlers signifies Louis Theroux revisiting a theme he previously investigated in his 2011 project The Ultra Zionists. The documentary tracks the British-American journalist as he engages in conversations with Palestinians, Israeli settlers, and Israeli activists who oppose settlement expansion.

Among the prominent figures featured is Daniella Weiss, a veteran leader within the settler movement, who expresses to Louis Theroux her aspiration to establish Israeli settlements in Gaza. The film additionally documents settlers attempting to set up unauthorized outposts in the occupied West Bank, detailing the process by which these communities expand prior to securing official recognition from Israeli authorities.

A five-star review from The National characterized the documentary as fearless journalism, highlighting how the restrained interview style of Louis Theroux enables his subjects to articulate their perspectives comprehensively.

In related categories, Exposure: Breaking Ranks: Inside Israel’s War, produced by Zandland for ITV1, received a nomination in the current affairs division. This investigative piece includes accounts from Israeli military conscripts, reservists, and veterans who served in Gaza, detailing allegations concerning international law and military conduct.

Furthermore, Al Jazeera Arabic earned a nomination in the news category for Missing in Gaza, while Al Jazeera English secured a current affairs nomination for Al Jazeera Investigates: Hasina: 36 Days in July. Overall, the 54th International Emmy Awards feature 64 nominated programmes across 16 categories, with winners scheduled to be revealed at the awards gala in New York on November 23.