The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that a widely circulated image showing one of its soldiers smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon is authentic and said disciplinary action will be taken. The military described the conduct as a serious violation of its values and stated that the incident is under investigation through the chain of command.

The photograph was taken in the Christian village of Debel, where Israeli forces have been operating against Hezbollah. The Northern Command said it will also assist the local Christian community in restoring the damaged statue.

The incident occurred days into a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and follows broader tensions involving Israeli authorities and Christian leaders in Jerusalem during the ongoing regional conflict. The military has faced previous scrutiny over alleged property destruction and misconduct by troops in other theaters of operation, and reiterated that inappropriate actions would be addressed.