An image showing an IDF soldier in uniform smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon spread rapidly online on Sunday afternoon, drawing condemnations across social media.
The IDF said that it would investigate, confirming on Sunday evening that the image was genuine.
"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 following its confirmation.
"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," the military added.
The IDF will also assist the community in restoring the statue to its place, the military said.
According to reports attributed to members of the Christian community in the village of Ain Ebel in the central sector of southern Lebanon, the alleged incident took place in Debel, a Maronite Christian village about six kilometers to the northwest and roughly five kilometers northeast of the Israeli border community of Shtula.
FM Sa'ar, Jewish community leaders condemn incident
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar decried the incident, labeling it “grave and disgraceful” in a Monday morning post on X/Twitter.
“This shameful action is completely contrary to our values,” Sa’ar asserted, extending an apology to Christians who felt hurt by the incident.
Sa’ar added that he is confident that the IDF will take “necessary strict measures” against the soldier responsible for the incident.
Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander, President and Head of Ohr Torah Stone, a network of over 30 Orthodox educational institutions, described the image as "deeply troubling and painful."
"Such acts of desecration contradict the values of the IDF and the teachings of Judaism, which demand respect for all people and all expressions of faith," Brander continued.
"The IDF’s decision to investigate, assist the local community, and restore the damaged statue is both important and commendable, reflecting a commitment to accountability even when individuals fall short. It is a reminder that true strength is measured not only on the battlefield, but also in the ability to confront wrongdoing, uphold Torah values, and act with integrity in the most complex circumstances.”
Christian Forum coordinator: 'Impossible to remain silent'
Wadie Abunassar, coordinator of the Christian Forum in the Holy Land, said he had received the image from several sources and urged that the matter not be ignored.
“It is impossible to remain silent in the face of such violations,” he said, calling for complaints to be filed in order to bring the perpetrator to justice.
