The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that it is investigating an incident in southern Lebanon involving one of its soldiers allegedly defacing a Christian, after images circulating online sparked outrage.
The controversy emerged after a viral post on X showed what appeared to be an Israeli soldier striking a sculpture of Jesus with a hammer and reportedly damaging the face of the statue.
In an official statement, the IDF acknowledged the incident, saying an initial examination found that the photograph indeed depicted one of its soldiers operating in southern Lebanon.
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IDF calls the conduct ‘severe’, launches investigation
The Israeli military responded to the criticism by stating that it considers the incident to be of “great severity” and emphasizing that the soldier’s actions did not meet the standards required of its members.
“The soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops,” the IDF said in its statement on X.
The military further noted that the matter is being handled through the chain of command. The statement added that “appropriate measures” will be taken once the investigation is complete.
“The incident is being investigated by the Northern Command and is currently being addressed through the chain of command. Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings,” the statement read.
In addition to disciplinary action, the IDF said it is working to assist the local community in restoring the damaged statue to its original place.
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Incident sparks outrage amid geopolitical tension
Southern Lebanon has long been a flashpoint between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, with periodic escalations shaping the region’s volatile security landscape.
The incident occurred in Debel, a Maronite Christian village near the Israeli border community of Shtula, according to reports attributed to members of the Christian community in the village of Ain Ebel in the central sector of southern Lebanon.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Wadie Abunassar, coordinator of the Christian Forum in the Holy Land, said, “It is impossible to remain silent in the face of such violations.”
The IDF emphasised that its operations in the region are focused on dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure and not targeting civilian or religious sites. “The IDF has no intention of harming civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings or religious symbols,” the statement said.