IDF Soldiers Jailed After Damaging Jesus Statue in Lebanon Incident

Debel, Lebanon – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has sentenced two soldiers to 30 days of military detention after one of them was filmed striking a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon. The military said both soldiers, one who carried out the act and another who photographed it, will also be removed from combat duty following an internal inquiry. The individuals have not been publicly identified.

The incident occurred in the village of Debel and quickly drew widespread condemnation after images circulated online. In a statement, the IDF said the soldiers’ actions “completely deviated from IDF orders and values” and expressed “deep regret” over the incident. The military added that six additional soldiers who were present but failed to intervene or report the act will face separate disciplinary measures.

Authorities confirmed that the damaged part of a crucifix located outside a family home has since been replaced in coordination with the local community. The IDF emphasised that its operations in Lebanon are directed “solely” against militant groups, including Hezbollah, and not civilians or religious institutions.

Local religious leaders strongly condemned the desecration. Father Fadi Flaifel, head of Debel’s congregation, described the act as deeply offensive.

“We totally reject the desecration of the cross, our sacred symbol, and all religious symbols,” he told media. “It goes against human rights and does not reflect civility.”

He added that similar incidents had occurred previously, raising concerns within the local Christian community.

Among those criticising the act was Mike Huckabee, who called for “swift, severe, and public consequences” following what he described as an “outrageous act.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was “stunned and saddened,” expressing regret for the incident and for any distress caused to believers in Lebanon and globally.

The incident comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, brokered with US involvement, following weeks of fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Thousands of Israeli troops remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, while both sides have accused each other of ceasefire violations. The recent conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Lebanese authorities report over 2,000 deaths and more than one million displaced, while Israeli officials say attacks by Hezbollah have killed 15 people, including soldiers and civilians.

Analysts say incidents involving religious symbols risk inflaming tensions in already volatile conflict zones.

“Respect for cultural and religious sites is critical in maintaining community trust during military operations,” said a regional security expert.

IDF soldiers Lebanon incident