The IDF has confirmed that it has launched an investigation after a photo of a soldier smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon emerged over the weekend.
The image, which went viral on social media and has been condemned by Prime Minister Netanyahu among others, showed the soldier taking a sledgehammer to the head of the sculpture, which had been toppled from its position on a large crucifix by the roadside.
A military spokesperson announced that the photo had been verified and that an investigation was underway on Sunday evening.
"The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasises that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops,” they said.
“The incident is being investigated by the Northern Command and is currently being addressed through the chain of command. Appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings.
“Furthermore, the IDF is working to assist the community in restoring the statue to its place.
“The IDF is operating to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure established by Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, and has no intention of harming civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings or religious symbols.”
The soldier’s actions were also condemned by Netanyahu, who wrote: “As the Jewish state, Israel cherishes and upholds the Jewish values of tolerance and mutual respect between Jews and worshippers of all faiths. All religions flourish in our land and we view members of all faiths as equals in building our society and region.
“Yesterday, like the overwhelming majority of Israelis, I was stunned and saddened to learn that an IDF soldier damaged a Catholic religious icon in southern Lebanon. I condemn the act in the strongest terms. Military authorities are conducting a criminal probe of the matter and will take appropriately harsh disciplinary action against the offender.”
However, he emphasised that “the Christian population in Israel thrives unlike elsewhere in the Middle East”, adding: “Israel is the only country in the region that the Christian population and standard of living is growing. Israel is the only place in the Middle East that adheres to freedom of worship for all.”
"We express regret for the incident and for any hurt this has caused to believers in Lebanon and around the world,” he concluded
Elsewhere, Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s foreign minister, wrote on X: “The damaging of a Christian religious symbol by an IDF soldier in southern Lebanon is grave and disgraceful.
I commend the IDF for its statement, for condemning the incident, and for conducting an investigation into the matter. I’m confident that the necessary strict measures will be taken against whoever carried out this ugly act.”
“This shameful action is completely contrary to our values,” he went on.
“Israel is a country that respects the different religions and their sacred symbols, and upholds tolerance and respect among faiths.
“We apologise for this incident and to every Christian whose feelings were hurt.”
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