IDF Confirms Soldier's Destruction of Jesus Statue in Lebanon, Initiates Investigation
The Israeli Defense Forces have verified the authenticity of a photo showing a soldier destroying a Jesus statue in southern Lebanon and have launched an investigation into the incident.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the authenticity of a photograph depicting a soldier in southern Lebanon using a sledgehammer to destroy a statue of Jesus. The image, which has circulated widely online, was taken in the Christian village of Debel, where the IDF has been operating against Hezbollah.
"The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasizes that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops," the military stated.
The IDF has initiated an investigation into the matter, with the Northern Command handling the case through the chain of command. Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved based on the findings. Additionally, the military has pledged to assist the Christian community in restoring the statue.
This incident comes amid a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, following recent tensions between Israeli authorities and Christian leaders in Jerusalem. In March, Israeli police prevented top Catholic figures from praying at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday, citing security restrictions during the ongoing conflict with Iran. The move sparked international criticism, leading to arrangements for Easter services at the holy site.
The IDF has also faced scrutiny over instances of looting and destruction of property by its troops, particularly in the Gaza Strip after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack. In 2024, the IDF's then-top lawyer, Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, warned commanders against illegal actions by troops, including unjustified use of force, looting, and destruction of civilian property contrary to protocols.