Israel's military is investigating a soldier who was photographed smoking and placing a cigarette in the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in the southern Lebanese village of Debel. The military said it views the incident with utmost severity and that the soldier's behaviour deviated from the values expected of its personnel, adding that disciplinary measures would follow the investigation.

The incident comes weeks after another soldier was photographed striking a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer, an act that led to prison sentences after international condemnation. The Roman Catholic Church's representative in the Holy Land denounced the latest act as disrespectful and called on Israeli authorities to ensure accountability and prevent similar behaviour.

The events are unfolding amid ongoing hostilities in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire brokered by the United States in April. Israeli forces continue to operate in the area, while clashes with Hezbollah persist, including air strikes and rocket fire, contributing to mounting casualties on both sides.