Israel installs new cross in Lebanon after desecration of Christ statue
The new cross handed over to the Christian community in Lebanon by the Israel Defense Forces. Photo: Tribune Chrétienne
On April 21, 2026, Israel handed a new cross to the Christian community in southern Lebanon to replace the one destroyed after an incident in which an Israeli serviceman used a hammer to smash the face of Christ on a crucifix, Tribune Chrétienne reported.
The soldier was caught on video desecrating the Christian cross. The footage spread widely on social media and sparked public outrage. The video shows the figure of Christ being removed from the cross and turned upside down, after which the statue’s head is struck several times with a heavy object. The incident drew a sharp reaction from local residents and Christian communities in the region.
On April 21, the Israel Defense Forces announced disciplinary measures against the serviceman who smashed the statue of Christ in the Christian village of Debel. The soldier was sentenced to 30 days in military detention and removed from combat duty. A second serviceman, who filmed the incident, received the same punishment.
Local authorities reacted strongly. Maroun Nassif, deputy head of the Debel municipality, described what happened as an attack on religious values and condemned the desecration.
At the same time, the Israeli side took a symbolic step by handing over a new cross to the Christian community to replace the damaged one and expressing readiness to help restore the desecrated shrine.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Greece also reacted to the incident. Ieronymos II, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, condemned the desecration of the statue of the crucified Christ in southern Lebanon, stressing that violence against holy objects is unacceptable and calling for peace.
Read also
Ukrposhta issues stamp featuring Lavra for Soviet-era reserve's anniversary
The new postal block, issued in a print run of 40,000 copies, depicts the Lavra's churches, bell tower, and ancient frescoes.
Met. Theodosiy links his criminal case to ex-prosecutor named in NABU tapes
A Cherkasy court extended Metropolitan Theodosiy’s preventive measure for another two months – until November 29, 2026.
Stefanchuk: Seeking UCCRO-LGBT compromise on new Civil Code
The Verkhovna Rada speaker said the working group is seeking a broad public compromise as it revises the draft of the new Civil Code.
Rabbi thanks SBU for arresting Ukrainian over antisemitic threats
Moshe Azman called for those who incite religious hatred to be held accountable, warning that the line between online threats and real-world violence can be very thin.
Pochaiv Lavra calls for fasting ahead of Kyiv Metropolia court hearing
The Pochaiv Lavra Spiritual Council called on the faithful to unite in prayer and fasting from October 5 through 7.
Russian strike damages Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Sumy for fourth time
One of the aerial bombs struck the cemetery in Sumy, causing extensive damage to the church’s facade, roof and interior.