Israel's military has launched an investigation after a photograph circulated online appearing to show one of its soldiers striking a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon. The military confirmed the image shows a soldier deployed in the area and said the behavior depicted is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops. Officials stated that the incident is being treated with great severity and that further action will depend on the findings of the investigation.

The photograph, widely shared on social media, appears to show the soldier using a tool to hit the head of a crucified Jesus statue in the predominantly Christian village of Debl near the Israeli border. Local officials condemned the act as offensive to religious beliefs and sacred values. The military said it is working with the community to restore the statue and emphasized that its operations in southern Lebanon are focused on dismantling infrastructure linked to Hezbollah, not targeting civilian or religious sites.