IDF says image of soldier destroying Jesus statue in Lebanon is real, vows action

The Israel Defense Forces confirms the authenticity of a photo showing a soldier in southern Lebanon smashing a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer, and says it will take action against those involved.

Following an initial review of the photo, the military says that “it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon.”

“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 military says.

The incident is being investigated by the Northern Command and is being handled “through the chain of command,” the IDF says, adding that “appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings.”

The Northern Command will also assist the Christian community in restoring the statue to its place, the military adds.