Israeli Soldiers Jailed After Damaging Jesus Statue In Lebanon

[Awwal]

Israeli authorities have sentenced two soldiers to 30 days of military detention after they damaged a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon and photographed the act. The soldiers will also be removed from combat duties.

According to the Israeli military, six other soldiers who witnessed the incident but failed to intervene or report it will face disciplinary questioning, with possible further actions against them.

The controversy began after an image circulated on social media showing a soldier striking a crucified statue of Jesus in the predominantly Christian town of Debel. The act sparked outrage among local residents, with community leaders describing it as an attack on their religious beliefs.

The Israeli military condemned the behavior, stating it goes against the values expected of its personnel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed shock and strongly denounced the incident.

Following the backlash, the military said it coordinated with the local community to replace the damaged statue with a new one, expressing deep regret and promising to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Lebanese leaders have called for international accountability, stressing the need to protect religious sites, uphold human dignity, and promote lasting peace in the region.

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