The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that one of its soldiers recently destroyed an effigy of Jesus Christ torn from a crucifix in southern Lebanon, territory where Israeli forces have been conducting military operations to establish broader territorial control.
The incident, captured in a viral photograph, follows the IDF’s documented pattern of targeting Catholic churches and religious symbols. The video has triggered widespread condemnation across faith communities and non-Christian groups alike.
In an official statement on social media, the IDF verified that the photo depicts a soldier operating in southern Lebanon. It described the act as “wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops” and confirmed the Northern Command is investigating the matter through standard disciplinary channels. The military also pledged to restore the damaged statue to its original location.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the act on social media, stating: “As the Jewish state, Israel cherishes and upholds the Jewish values of tolerance and mutual respect between Jews and worshippers of all faiths… I condemn the act in the strongest terms.” He further noted that Christians are “slaughtered in Syria and Lebanon by Muslims.”
The attack has drawn sharp criticism from multiple figures. Podcaster Cenk Uygur labeled it evidence of religious contempt, asserting: “You have nothing but contempt for other people’s religions.” Young Turks colleague Ana Kasparian added that Israel’s investigations lack credibility, particularly given ongoing reports of IDF soldiers committing violence daily. Independent journalist Glenn Greenwald, who is Jewish, argued the soldier was justified due to Hezbollah and Hamas activity in the area. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee demanded “swift and severe” disciplinary action, while former GOP Representative Matt Gaetz called it “horrific.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has remained silent on the matter, as has President Donald Trump.
The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land condemned the act as a “grave affront to the Christian faith,” noting it is part of a recurring pattern of religious desecration. They called for immediate disciplinary action and assurances such conduct will not recur.
This incident follows previous violations: A year ago, the IDF bulldozed a statue of St. George in southern Lebanon. On October 9, 2024, an Israeli airstrike destroyed St. George Melkite Catholic Church in Derdghaya, Lebanon, killing eight people. In March, Israel blocked access to Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre during Palm Sunday Mass, a move that prompted Netanyahu to reopen it for the remainder of Holy Week. Jack Posobiec of Human Events questioned why the soldier had not been named and what disciplinary actions were being taken.