Israeli soldier damages Jesus statue in Lebanon, investigation underway

An Israeli soldier was photographed striking a statue of Jesus Christ with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon, an act confirmed by the Israeli military as authentic.

The image shows the soldier hitting the head of a crucified Jesus statue that had fallen from its cross.

The incident took place in the Christian village of Debl, near the border with Israel.

The Israeli army described the conduct as "wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops" and said it viewed the matter with "great severity." No casualties or injuries have been reported.

The Israeli military's Northern Command is conducting an investigation and addressing the issue through the chain of command.

Officials have stated that appropriate measures will be taken based on the findings.

This event is significant as it involves the desecration of a religious symbol in a sensitive border area, potentially affecting intercommunal relations and Israel's image regarding respect for religious diversity.

The Israeli army is cooperating with the local community to restore the statue to its original place.

The municipality of Debl confirmed the statue's location but did not verify the extent of the damage.

Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident as "grave and disgraceful," emphasizing that Israel respects different religions and their sacred symbols.

He praised the military's condemnation and investigation efforts and expressed confidence that strict measures will be taken against those responsible.

The military's official statement was posted on its social media account, reaffirming the seriousness with which the incident is being treated.

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