Jerusalem patriarch condemns destruction of Jesus statue in Lebanon

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem has strongly condemned the destruction of a statue of Jesus by an Israeli soldier in southern Lebanon, describing the act as a serious violation of religious respect and moral conduct.

In a statement reported by Italy’s ANSA news agency, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa expressed “deep indignation” and “unreserved condemnation” over what he called the desecration of a Christian symbol. He said the incident represented a “grave affront to the Christian faith” and referred to reports of similar acts involving religious symbols in the region.

The Cardinal also characterized the incident as a “worrying failure in moral and human formation” and reiterated Pope Leo’s call for a “disarmed and disarming” peace, emphasizing the need for restraint and respect for religious heritage amid ongoing regional conflict.

Israeli strike kills three in Gaza as ceasefire violence continues

The condemnation followed the circulation of a photo online showing an Israeli soldier using a sledgehammer to destroy a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon. The image sparked widespread outrage internationally, prompting criticism from religious leaders and political figures across Europe.

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani described the act as “shameful,” stating that insulting religious symbols reflects weakness rather than strength. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also issued an apology, calling the incident “grave and disgraceful” and confirming that an investigation had been launched to determine responsibility.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the conduct shown in the incident is being treated with “utmost seriousness” and does not reflect the values expected of its soldiers. The military later stated that the statue had been restored and expressed “deep regret” over the incident.

The episode comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon have reportedly caused significant casualties and displacement, further intensifying international concern over the humanitarian and cultural impact of the conflict.