The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced an investigation after a soldier was captured in a viral image allegedly destroying a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon.
The photo, which spread rapidly across social media and drew widespread attention, triggered public outrage due to the damage of a Christian religious symbol. The Israeli military later confirmed the image was authentic and showed one of its personnel operating in the area.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the IDF said: “Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon.”
The army strongly condemned the behaviour, adding: “The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasises that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops.”
It further confirmed that a formal investigation has been opened, stating: “The Northern Command is investigating the incident and is currently being addressed through the chain of command. Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings.”
The military also noted efforts to address the damage and support local restoration work on the statue, while stressing that its operations target Hezbollah infrastructure and not civilian or religious sites. “It has no plan to harm or attack civilian infrastructure, religious buildings or religious symbols,” the statement added.
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions and recent military operations in Lebanon, where significant casualties have been reported in recent weeks. It also follows a temporary ceasefire arrangement announced by Donald Trump after discussions involving Joseph Aoun and Benjamin Netanyahu aimed at reducing hostilities between both sides.