IDF soldiers jailed for desecrating Jesus statue in southern Lebanon village

Two Israeli soldiers were removed from combat duty and sentenced to 30 days in military prison after one used a sledgehammer to smash a statue of Jesus in a Christian village in southern Lebanon and the other filmed the act. The IDF said their conduct deviated from orders and values, and a replacement crucifix was installed in coordination with the local community. The incident drew widespread condemnation from Lebanese authorities, Christian leaders, and political figures, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, highlighting sensitivities around religious symbols amid the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.