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Israeli Army Probes Soldier's Damage to Jesus Statue in Lebanon Village

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has opened an investigation after a photograph circulated on social media appearing to show a soldier damaging a statue of Jesus Christ on the cross in southern Lebanon. The incident occurred in the Christian village of Debel, which is under Israeli military occupation. Local official Maroun Nassif condemned the act as a shameful attack on sacred beliefs. The IDF stated the soldier's conduct was wholly inconsistent with its values and promised appropriate measures following the investigation.

Key Points: IDF Investigates Soldier Damaging Jesus Statue in Lebanon

  • IDF probes viral photo of statue damage
  • Soldier seen striking crucifix with tool
  • Incident in occupied Christian village
  • Military condemns act as inconsistent with values
  • Investigation launched by Northern Command
2 min read

Israeli Army launches probe into viral photo showing damage to Jesus' statue in Lebanon

The Israeli military launches an investigation after a viral photo shows a soldier damaging a crucifix statue in a Christian village in southern Lebanon.

"We certainly condemn this shameful act because it offends our religious feelings and is an attack on our sacred beliefs. - Maroun Nassif"

Tel Aviv, April 20

The Israeli military has launched an investigation after a photograph circulating on social media showed an Israeli soldier damaging a statue of a crucified Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon, CNN reported.

According to CNN, the image, taken in the predominantly Christian village of Debel, shows the figure of Christ leaning against the cross, appearing upside down and removed from it. The photo, posted on Sunday, appears to show an Israeli soldier striking the head of the statue of Christ on the cross with a hammer or an axe.

"We certainly condemn this shameful act because it offends our religious feelings and is an attack on our sacred beliefs," Maroun Nassif, the deputy head of the Debel municipality, told CNN.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement that it views the incident with "great severity," adding that the soldier's conduct is "wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops." The IDF's Northern Command has initiated an investigation into the matter.

"Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings," the IDF said.

It further added that it is working to assist the local community in restoring the statue to its original place.

Debel is among 55 towns and villages in southern Lebanon currently under Israeli military occupation. The village lies around four miles west of Bint Jbeil, which Israeli forces have encircled in ongoing operations targeting what they describe as a Hezbollah stronghold in the area, CNN reported.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
War is terrible, but soldiers must be held to a higher standard. This act shows a complete lack of discipline and respect. It tarnishes the image of any military. Hope the investigation is swift and the community gets proper support to restore the statue.
A
Arun Y
While the condemnation is good, it feels like too little too late. These images cause immense pain to Christians worldwide, including the many in India. The "appropriate measures" must be severe to deter such acts in the future. The occupation itself is the root problem.
S
Sarah B
As a Christian living in Mumbai, this news hurts. Our churches and statues are part of our spiritual life. It's scary to think soldiers in conflict zones would target such symbols. Praying for peace and healing for the people in Debel.
V
Vikram M
This is exactly why India's stance of resolving issues through dialogue is so important. Violence begets more violence and disrespect. The soldier's action, even if an isolated incident, fuels the cycle of hatred. Hope they genuinely help restore it.
K
Kiran H
Respectfully, while this act is condemnable, the article briefly mentions the village is under occupation. The larger issue is the military control over 55 towns. The statue is a symptom, the occupation is the disease. The world's focus should be there.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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