Beirut, Lebanon – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the incident in which an Israeli soldier vandalized a statue of Jesus Christ in a village in southern Lebanon. The incident sparked widespread anger and condemnation, particularly within religious and church circles both inside and outside Lebanon.
In an official statement, Netanyahu asserted that the incident was “an unacceptable individual act that does not reflect the values or policies of the Israeli army.” He emphasized that the army would take the necessary measures to investigate the incident and hold the perpetrator accountable. He added that Israel “respects all religions and holy sites.” Furthermore, he clarified that such actions do not represent the state’s approach.
For its part, the Israeli army announced an urgent investigation into the incident, stating that the soldier involved had been identified. It confirmed that he would be held accountable under military law. The military statement indicated that Israeli forces receive clear instructions regarding respect for religious and cultural sites in areas of operation.
In contrast, official and religious Lebanese authorities strongly condemned the incident, considering it a “blatant attack on Christian holy sites and a violation of human and religious values.” They also demanded that those responsible be held accountable and that measures be taken to prevent the recurrence of such violations.
This incident comes amid escalating tensions on Lebanon’s southern border. Currently, warnings are mounting about the repercussions of any actions that could further inflame the situation, while international parties are calling for restraint and de-escalation.
