The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has launched an investigation after a viral image appeared to show a soldier damaging a statue of Jesus during operations in southern Lebanon.
The photograph, which spread widely on social media and drew significant backlash, showed a uniformed Israeli soldier smashing a Christian religious statue, sparking outrage over the destruction of a religious symbol.
In a statement on Sunday, the IDF confirmed the authenticity of the image and said it depicted one of its soldiers operating in southern Lebanon.
“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 military said.
The army condemned the incident, describing the behaviour as inconsistent with its values.
“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 added.
The military also confirmed that an internal investigation is ongoing through the Northern Command, with disciplinary action expected based on the outcome.
“The matter is being addressed through the chain of command. Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings,” the statement said.
The IDF further noted that efforts are underway to repair the damage and support the local community in restoring the statue. It stressed that its operations in Lebanon are focused on dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure and not on targeting civilian or religious sites.
“It has no plan to harm or attack civilian infrastructure, religious buildings or religious symbols,” the army said.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions and ongoing military operations in southern Lebanon, where casualties have been reported in recent weeks.
It also follows a ceasefire arrangement reportedly brokered after discussions involving former U.S. President Donald Trump, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aimed at reducing hostilities in the region.