Israeli soldier under investigation for desecration of religious statue in southern Lebanon

A photograph circulating on social media shows an Israeli soldier placing a cigarette in the mouth of a Virgin Mary statue in the town of Debel, southern Lebanon. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on May 6, 2026, that the image was taken several weeks ago. The military stated that it views the incident with extreme severity, noting that such behavior contradicts the values of the IDF. An investigation has been launched, and administrative measures will be taken against the soldier involved. This incident follows reports of previous damage to Christian religious symbols in the region, including the destruction of a statue of Jesus in the same town last month. Similar allegations of vandalism in Christian villages have caused significant public outcry in Lebanon. In response to mounting criticism regarding such actions, Israel has previously appointed a special envoy to engage with the Christian community.