Netanyahu condemns soldier over destruction of Jesus statue in Lebanon

Tuesday 21 April 2026 - 11:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Netanyahu condemns soldier over destruction of Jesus statue in Lebanon

Benjamin Netanyahu condemned an Israeli soldier after a photograph showed the destruction of a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon, an incident that triggered international backlash and a criminal investigation by the Israel Defense Forces. The image, widely shared online, shows a soldier striking the head of the statue with a hammer in the Christian village of Debl.

The military confirmed the authenticity of the image and said a preliminary review identified the individual as one of its soldiers operating in the area. In a statement, the army said the conduct violated its values and announced that its Northern Command had opened an investigation. It added that disciplinary measures would follow and that efforts were underway to restore the damaged statue in coordination with local residents.

The statue stood on the outskirts of Debl, also known as Deir Siryan, a predominantly Christian village near the Israeli border in the Nabatieh district. Residents have not been able to access the site to assess the full extent of the damage due to the continued military presence in the area.

Netanyahu said he was shocked and saddened by the incident, calling it unacceptable and pledging strict action against those responsible. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described the act as serious and disgraceful, issuing an apology to Christians worldwide. He said Israel would take firm steps against those involved and emphasized the importance of respecting religious sites.

The reaction extended beyond Israel. Mike Huckabee called for swift and visible consequences, describing the act as offensive. The incident has intensified scrutiny of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, where forces remain deployed despite a ceasefire.

Reports indicate that several religious sites in the region have been damaged since the start of Israeli operations, including churches and protected heritage locations. The Israeli military has stated it does not target civilian infrastructure or religious symbols. The episode has added to existing tensions between Israel and Christian communities in the region, where concerns over discrimination have already been raised.