UN Condemns Destruction of Religious Statue by Israeli Soldier in Lebanon

(MENAFN) The United Nations has expressed strong condemnation after reports emerged of a statue of Jesus being destroyed by an Israeli soldier in southern Lebanon, describing the incident as “shocking,” according to statements made on Wednesday.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said at a press briefing that the organization was aware of the incident and stressed that the desecration of religious symbols and places of worship is unacceptable regardless of faith. He also noted reports that disciplinary action had been taken in response to the incident.

Video footage circulating on social media reportedly showed a soldier striking and damaging the statue in the town of Debel using a tool, an act that drew widespread criticism.

The Israeli military acknowledged the incident in a statement and said it had addressed the matter internally.

The UN spokesperson emphasized that respect for religious sites and symbols is a fundamental principle under international norms.

The report also referenced previous incidents in southern Lebanon involving damage to religious structures and monuments during periods of military escalation, which have drawn concern from religious and civil authorities.

According to earlier reports, some religious sites in the region have been damaged or restricted during ongoing hostilities, with both local and international actors raising concerns over the protection of cultural and religious heritage in conflict zones.

MENAFN23042026000045017281ID1111021984