The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced, through their official channels, the results of an investigation into an incident involving Israeli soldiers in the Christian village of Debel, in southern Lebanon. The inquiry confirmed that one soldier damaged a Christian religious symbol while another documented the act with photographs, without intervention from others present.
According to the findings, the conduct of those involved completely violated the institution’s orders and values. The IDF described the episode as a serious and unacceptable failure, emphasizing that its operations in Lebanon are directed solely against Hezbollah and other armed groups, and not against civilians or religious communities.
As a disciplinary measure, the soldier responsible for the damage and the one who photographed the act were removed from combat duties and punished with 30 days of military detention — a decision the institution highlighted as a direct response to the severity of the incident and the misconduct involved.
Additionally, the six other soldiers present have been summoned to provide clarification and may face further sanctions. The IDF also stated that it is assisting the local community in replacing the damaged symbol and has reinforced guidelines regarding respect for religious sites and symbols among its troops.
The Chief of the General Staff condemned the incident, stating that it represents a significant moral failure and falls far below the standards expected of Israeli soldiers.
