After an initial examination of a viral photo that sparked immediate backlash, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed “appropriate measures” will be taken against the soldier seen smashing a statue of Jesus.
“Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon,” the IDF’s official X account posted Sunday.
The confirmation of the photo’s authenticity came after the military promised it would be investigated “thoroughly and in depth.”
Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon.
The IDF views the incident with great… https://t.co/U6P3x8KWBb
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 19, 2026
“The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasizes that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops,” the IDF noted.
Younis Tirawi, a Palestinian reporter, posted the image that appeared to show a uniformed soldier hitting a fallen statue of Jesus.
“Reuters has verified the location of the incident as Debel, one of the few villages in southern Lebanon where residents have remained amid an Israeli military campaign against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia. This campaign began on 2 March, following Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on Israel in support of Iran,” according to The Independent. “Fadi Felfle, a priest in Debel, confirmed that the cross was part of a small shrine situated in the garden of a family residing on the edge of the village.”
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the actions of the soldier and posted, “We apologize for this incident and to every Christian whose feelings were hurt.”
“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,” he wrote.
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…— Gideon Sa’ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) April 20, 2026
“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,” the IDF’s post on Sunday noted. “Furthermore, the IDF is working to assist the community in restoring the statue to its place.”
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Originally from New York, Powers graduated from New York University and eventually made her way to sunny South Florida. Powers also contributes to BizPac Review.
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