Israel has punished two soldiers after images of a damaged Jesus statue sparked outrage.
Israel said its military has sentenced two soldiers to 30 days in jail and removed them from combat duty after they were involved in destroying a statue of Jesus Christ in Lebanon.
According to the Israeli military, one soldier used a sledgehammer to knock the statue to the ground, while the second soldier filmed the act. Images of the incident surfaced over the weekend and quickly spread online, drawing criticism from religious groups, political figures, and social media users.
The statue was reportedly located in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have been operating amid ongoing tensions with the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
The military said the soldiers’ conduct violated expected standards and confirmed disciplinary action had been taken. Both men were also removed from active combat roles.
The case has increased pressure on Israel’s military leadership as it faces scrutiny over conduct during operations in Lebanon and neighboring conflict zones.
Religious sites and symbols often carry deep sensitivity in the region, especially in Lebanon, where Christian communities remain a significant part of the country’s social and political landscape.The punishment follows earlier statements from Israeli officials condemning the act and promising a formal investigation.
Incidents involving religious symbols can inflame already tense situations and create wider diplomatic fallout.
Israel’s decision to jail the soldiers appears aimed at containing criticism and signaling accountability.
The controversy highlights how actions by individual troops can quickly become international flashpoints during conflict.
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