Overview
- The Israeli military said Monday it authenticated the viral photo, identified the soldier, and assigned the Northern Command to investigate.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the act and promised harsh discipline for conduct the army called inconsistent with its values.
- The damaged crucifix stood in a family’s garden in Debl, a largely Christian village near the border where residents were forced to leave during recent operations.
- Catholic leaders labeled the desecration a grave affront to the faith and demanded a credible process that delivers real accountability.
- The IDF said it is helping restore the statue, the U.S. ambassador urged swift and public consequences, and Israeli troops remain in southern Lebanon under a new ceasefire.