‘Strong disciplinary action will be taken’: Netanyahu condemns IDF soldiers for destroying Lebanese Jesus statue

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday condemned in the “strongest terms” an alleged attack on a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon by an IDF soldier.Netanyahu said in a post onALSO READ | ‘Offended our religious sensibilities’: Image of IDF soldiers ramming statue of Jesus in Lebanon sparks outrageHe added: “As a Jewish state, Israel cherishes and upholds Jewish values ​​of tolerance and mutual respect between Jews and worshipers of all faiths. All religions thrive in our land and we believe that members of all faiths are equal in building our society and region. “Netanyahu also said, “While Christians in Syria and Lebanon are massacred by Muslims, Israel’s Christian population is different from the rest of the Middle East. Israel is the only country in the region with a growing Christian population and living standards. Israel is the only place in the Middle East that insists on freedom of belief for all. We regret this incident and any harm caused to believers in Lebanon and around the world.”“The photo, widely shared on social media, appears to show a soldier using a hammer or similar tool to strike the head of a statue of Jesus that had detached from the cross.Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also condemned the incident, calling it “serious and shameful.” He posted on X that the act was “completely contrary to our values” and stressed that Israel respects all religions and their sacred symbols. He also praised the Israeli military for condemning the act and launching an investigation.