Israeli Soldiers Detained for 30 Days After Destroying Jesus Statue in Lebanon

The Israeli military stated today that two soldiers have been sentenced to 30 days of military detention and removed from combat roles for destroying a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon. According to AFP, a viral photo showing a soldier striking the head of a crucifix with a sledgehammer in the Christian village of Debl sparked widespread condemnation.

A military investigation concluded that the soldier who destroyed the symbol and the one who filmed the act would be removed from combat duty and detained. Six other soldiers present who failed to intervene or report the incident have been summoned for questioning.

A statement from the IDF noted that the investigation found the soldiers' conduct completely violated IDF orders and values, clarifying that operations in Lebanon target terrorist organizations like Hezbollah, not civilians. The military also posted on X that they replaced the statue in full coordination with the local community. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock and sadness yesterday, promising severe punishment for those involved.