Israel Confirms Soldier in Viral Image Damaged Christian Statue in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli army has confirmed that a widely circulated social media image showing a soldier striking a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon is genuine.

The image reportedly shows an Israeli soldier using a sledgehammer on the head of a crucifixion statue that had fallen from its cross in the village of Debl, a Christian community near the Israeli border. Local officials told AFP the statue is located in the area but were unable to confirm the extent of any damage.

The Israeli military said in a statement on X that it considers the incident “with great severity,” adding that the behaviour of the soldier “is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops.”

“Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon,” the army said.

It added that the matter is being investigated by the Northern Command and handled through military command channels, with “appropriate measures” to follow. The army also said it is cooperating with local communities to “restore the statue to its place.”

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the incident as “shameful and disgraceful,” stating: “I am confident that necessary severe measures will be taken against whoever committed this ugly act. We apologise for this incident and to every Christian whose feelings were hurt.”

The development comes amid ongoing tensions in southern Lebanon, where conflict escalated after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks in March in support of Iran, prompting Israeli strikes and a ground incursion. Although a ceasefire began on Friday, Israeli troops remain deployed in the area.

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