Jerusalem

The Israeli military has sentenced two of its soldiers to 30 days in detention for damaging a statue of Jesus during operations in Lebanon, officials said.

According to a military statement, one soldier was photographed as the other used a heavy tool, believed to be a sledgehammer, to destroy the crucifix in a Lebanese village. Both personnel have been ordered to serve 30 days in military custody.

“The actions of the soldiers were in complete violation of IDF directives and values,” the statement said.

The incident drew widespread international criticism after images of the act circulated online, prompting strong reactions from Christian leaders across the world. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also condemned the behaviour.

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The military added that six other soldiers present at the scene, who did not intervene, will be questioned by senior officers. It further said that guidelines regarding the protection of religious sites and artefacts have been reinforced among troops operating in the area.