An image depicting an Israeli soldier striking a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon has triggered widespread condemnation after circulating online.
The incident took place in Debel, a village where some residents have remained despite the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Locals identified the site as a crucifix situated outside a family home.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the image is genuine, stating that it 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 added that “appropriate measures” will be taken against those involved and noted they are working with the local Christian community to “restore the statue to its place.”
Israel, US condemn destruction of the Jesus statue
The response from Israeli leadership was swift. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated he was “stunned and saddened” by the event, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar remarked: “We apologise for this incident and to every Christian whose feelings were hurt.”
Netanyahu later took to social media to highlight his country’s stance on religious freedom, posting in English: “The Christian population in Israel thrives unlike elsewhere in the Middle East.” He continued, “Israel is the only country in the region that the Christian population and standard of living is growing. Israel is the only place in the Middle East that adheres to freedom of worship for all.”
The image also drew sharp criticism from American political figures. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee—a Baptist minister—posted on X that “swift, severe, & public consequences are needed.” Other U.S. commentators were equally pointed; former congressman Matt Gaetz reposted the image with the caption “Horrific,” while former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote: “‘Our greatest ally’ that takes billions of our tax dollars and weapons every year.”
The human cost of the Israeli invasion of Lebanon
The current escalation follows the start of a conflict between Israel and Iran at the end of February. Two days later, Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel in support of Tehran.
Since Israel launched its military campaign on March 2, the human cost in Lebanon has been severe. According to Lebanese authorities, more than one million people have been displaced, and over 2,290 people have been killed, including 177 children and 100 healthcare workers. In the same period, Israeli officials report that 13 Israeli soldiers and two civilians have been killed by Hezbollah’s retaliatory attacks.
Related: Greece Joins International Outcry as Israel Restores Access to Holy Sepulchre
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