After a picture circulated showing an IDF soldier smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon, the IDF issued an official statement Sunday evening condemning the behavior.
"The actions do not align with the values of the IDF or the conduct expected of its soldiers," the military said. "The incident will be investigated thoroughly and in depth, and if necessary, steps will be taken in accordance with the findings."
The incident took place on the road leading to the town of Debel, which is home to Christian residents. Earlier this month, Pope Leo XIV sent an Easter message to Debel's community, which was affected by the war between Israel and the Hezbollah terrorist organization, after a humanitarian aid convoy on his behalf was canceled because of tensions. The pope dedicated his remarks to "all Christians in southern Lebanon. May you feel deep joy. None of your prayers has been lost," he wrote in his public message.
The IDF is currently examining the reliability of the photograph.
If this is indeed a real, recent picture, these actions do not align with the IDF's values and the behavior expected of IDF soldiers.The incident will be investigated thoroughly and in depth, and if… pic.twitter.com/xMTtEMp4dS
— LTC Nadav Shoshani (@LTC_Shoshani) April 19, 2026
Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, the IDF International Spokesperson, also addressed the incident: "The IDF is currently examining the reliability of the photograph. If this is indeed a real, recent picture, these actions do not align with the IDF's values and the behavior expected of IDF soldiers."
