Israel Defense Forces punish soldier who smashed Jesus Christ statue in Lebanon

IDF soldiers. Illustrative photo: Wisam Hashlamoun/Flash90

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on April 21, 2026, announced the punishment of a serviceman who a couple of days earlier destroyed a statue of Jesus Christ in the Christian village of Debl in Nabatieh province, in southern Lebanon, reports news.walla.

The soldier was sentenced to 30 days in the guardhouse and suspension from participation in combat operations. The same punishment was given to a second fighter who filmed the incident on camera.

Six other servicemen who were present during the act of vandalism were called for disciplinary interviews, based on the results of which further decisions will be made.

It is noted that the investigation established that the soldiers' actions grossly violated army orders and do not correspond to IDF values. The Chief of General Staff called what happened "reprehensible behavior that goes beyond acceptable limits."

The army press service expressed regret about what happened and reported that military actions are not directed against the civilian population. According to them, the Northern District command is helping village residents replace the destroyed statue. Instructions on handling religious objects and symbols have been reiterated to soldiers and officers.

As the UOJ wrote, the photograph of a soldier in full combat gear destroying the statue with a sledgehammer went viral on social media and provoked a diplomatic scandal. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he was "shocked and saddened" and promised "severe disciplinary measures".

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