IDF Investigates Soldier Striking Jesus Statue in Lebanon

A viral photograph showing an Israeli soldier striking a statue of Jesus Christ with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon has prompted widespread online outrage and an investigation by the Israel Defense Forces.

The image, which garnered millions of views on social media platform X, depicts the soldier hitting the statue's head near a cross in the village of Debl, a predominantly Christian community in the Bint Jbeil District, about five kilometers from the Israeli border. It was first posted on Sunday by Palestinian journalist Younis Tirawi, who identified the location as Debl and noted the statue's significance to the local Maronite Christian population. The Debl municipality confirmed the statue's presence in the village but could not immediately verify any damage.

In a statement on Monday, the IDF authenticated the photograph, stating it showed a soldier during operations in southern Lebanon. The military described the conduct as inconsistent with its values and said the Northern Command had launched a thorough investigation. "Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings," the IDF said. Officials added that personnel were assisting...