The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is investigating an incident in southern Lebanon where one of its soldiers allegedly defaced a Christian statue, sparking outrage.
Images circulating online showed the soldier striking a sculpture of Jesus with a hammer and damaging the face of the statue.
The IDF acknowledged the incident, stating that the photograph depicted one of its soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, and that the conduct was 'severe' and did not meet the standards required of its members.
The military emphasized that its operations in the region are focused on dismantling Hezbollah's infrastructure and not targeting civilian or religious sites.
The IDF is working to assist the local community in restoring the damaged statue to its original place and is taking disciplinary action against the soldier involved.
