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Israeli Army Probes Image Of Soldier Hitting Jesus Statue In Lebanon
Israel's army said it is examining the authenticity of an image that appears to show a soldier in south Lebanon hammering a statue of Jesus. The statue is reported to be in Debl, near the Israeli border, with Debl officials unable to confirm damage. The events unfold amid a March conflict with Lebanon and a ceasefire that took effect on April 17, while Israeli troops remain in the area.
Why It Matters
The incident touches on rules of conduct for IDF personnel amid ongoing cross-border clashes and a fragile ceasefire, with potential implications for regional tensions and public perception.
Timeline
5 Events
Article reporting the incident published
April 19, 2026
The report detailing the IDF inquiry and related statements was published on April 19, 2026.
Statue identified as located in Debl, south Lebanon; damage not confirmed
April 19, 2026
Arab media reports indicated the statue was in Debl, a Christian village in south Lebanon near the border with Israel. The Debl municipality told AFP that the statue was located in the village but could not confirm whether it had been damaged.
IDF says it is examining authenticity of image of soldier in Lebanon
April 19, 2026
The Israeli army said it was examining the reliability of an image circulating on social media that appears to show a soldier in south Lebanon hammering the head of a statue of Jesus. Spokesman Nadav Shoshani said the army is currently assessing the photograph and that, if real, the actions would not align with IDF values and would be investigated.
Ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon enters into force
April 17, 2026
A ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon entered into force on Friday, with Israeli troops remaining in the area.
Lebanon conflict escalates as Hezbollah rockets trigger Israeli response
March 2026
Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war in early March when Tehran-backed Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel in support of Iran. Israel responded with massive strikes across the country and an invasion of the south.