Israeli Soldiers Sentenced for Damaging Jesus Statue in Southern Lebanon

An Israeli military court has sentenced two soldiers to 30 days in detention for damaging a Jesus Christ statue in southern Lebanon, with one soldier using a hammer to strike the figure and another photographing the act. The incident occurred during military operations targeting the Hezbollah militia, not Lebanese civilians, according to the Israeli army. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar apologized to Christians offended by the event. The damaged statue has been replaced in coordination with local residents in Debel, Lebanon, though the new figure differs in appearance from the original. Six additional soldiers present during the incident have been summoned for discussions, with further measures pending, and all involved are barred from combat missions. A ceasefire is currently in effect in Lebanon, where approximately one-third of the population is Christian. The army deeply regrets the occurrence, emphasizing its focus on military targets.