Israeli soldiers accused of smashing Jesus statue sentenced to jail

The two Israeli Defense Forces soldiers accused of destroying the statue were sentenced to 30 days in jail, and they've been removed from combat duty.

By Kevin Killough

Published: April 22, 2026 10:04am

The Israeli military has sentenced two soldiers accused of smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon.

The two Israeli Defense Forces soldiers were sentenced to 30 days in jail, and they've been removed from combat duty, Sky News reported.

One of the soldiers allegedly destroyed the statue with a sledgehammer, while the other took a photo of the incident, which took place in the area of the Christian village of Debel. The photo sparked international outrage, as well as a condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

An IDF investigation found that six other soldiers were present at the scene and did not act to stop the act. According to the IDF, the statue has been replaced.