paroolSep 17, 2026, 01:00

Fauda review: with the Gaza war in mind, the fifth season is harder to digest

The fifth season of the action series Fauda is heavily influenced by the events of October 7, shifting the focus to intense acts of revenge by the protagonist, Doron. While the show maintains its signature tension, it faces criticism for its one-sided narrative that ignores the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The fifth season of the Israeli action series Fauda presents a challenging viewing experience due to the current geopolitical climate. While the show has historically attempted to offer a nuanced perspective on the operations of the Shin Bet and the Israeli military, the latest installment focuses heavily on the events of October 7. Protagonist Doron travels to Marseille to hunt down Hamas members involved in the attacks, leading to visceral scenes of revenge that define the season's narrative arc. The series features a harrowing reconstruction of the Nova Festival attacks, providing a tense, albeit controversial, portrayal of the conflict.

Despite its high production value and engaging pacing, the season faces criticism for its narrow focus. It largely overlooks the ongoing war in Gaza and the suffering of the Palestinian population while allowing Doron to execute enemies without facing significant consequences. By the final episode, the show reinforces its central theme of retribution, as Doron delivers a fatal blow to a terrorist leader, explicitly linking his actions to the trauma of 2023.

Culture

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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