IDF confirms viral image of soldier destroying Jesus statue in Lebanon, vows action

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that a viral image showing a soldier destroying a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon is authentic. The military described the act as serious and inconsistent with its values, adding that it does not reflect the conduct expected of its personnel. Officials said an investigation is underway and assured that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible. The incident has sparked concern and criticism, particularly over respect for religious symbols, as the IDF seeks to address the situation and prevent similar actions in the future.

According to news website HAARETZ, video from Debel, near the Litani River, captured a soldier striking the head of a Jesus statue with a sledgehammer. The statue had been placed upside down against a pole at the time of the incident. Reports indicate that the damaged statue stood on private property in the village and was owned by a family belonging to the Maronite Christian community.

After a preliminary review of the image, the IDF said it had determined that the photograph shows one of its soldiers operating in southern Lebanon.


“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 said in a statement posted on X.


"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.

"Furthermore, the IDF is working to assist the community in restoring the statue to its place," the statement further read.

The IDF said its operations in southern Lebanon are aimed at dismantling militant infrastructure linked to Hezbollah, and stressed that it does not intend to damage civilian sites, including religious buildings or symbols.

Lebanon was drawn into the wider Middle East conflict in early March after the Iran-backed Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel, escalating tensions, reported AFP. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes across Lebanon and later carried out a ground incursion in the south.

Despite a ceasefire that came into effect in mid-April, Israeli forces have continued to maintain a presence in parts of southern Lebanon, highlighting ongoing tensions and uncertainty on the ground.