Netanyahu Condemns Israeli Soldier For Sledgehammer Attack On Jesus Statue
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned a soldier shown striking a statue of Jesus and vowed that the individual would be punished. The video, posted by CBS News on Facebook, shows the soldier striking a statue of Jesus; Netanyahu called the act unacceptable and pledged that those responsible will face consequences. He said the behavior contradicts Israel's values and must be investigated, according to the report.
The footage circulated widely online, prompting public outcry and renewed attention to the treatment of religious symbols in the region. Netanyahu's swift response may aim to calm international concern and limit political fallout ahead of domestic debates over security and minority rights.
đ Key Facts
- A photo circulated online shows an Israeli soldier striking a statue of Jesus Christ with a sledgehammer in the Christian village of Debl, southern Lebanon.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the act, called himself stunned and saddened, expressed regret to believers, and promised harsh disciplinary action.
- The IDF confirmed the image is authentic, said Northern Command is investigating, and pledged to work with the local community to restore the statue.
- U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee publicly called for swift, severe and public consequences for the soldier involved.
- The incident occurred in Israeli-occupied southern Lebanon during a 10-day ceasefire following weeks of fighting with Hezbollah.
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