Israeli soldier places cigarette in statue of Virgin Mary in southern Lebanon, sparking outrage
Middle East Eye
A photo of an Israeli soldier putting a cigarette in the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in the Christian town of Debel, southern Lebanon, has sparked outrage. The Israeli military denounced the soldier's actions as contrary to its values. The incident adds to concerns about attacks on Christian sites in the region.
A shocking image circulating on social media shows an Israeli soldier placing a cigarette near the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in the town of Debel, a predominantly Christian area in southern Lebanon.
The act has ignited widespread anger amid growing concerns over attacks targeting Christians in the region.
The Israeli military confirmed the photo was taken several weeks ago and stated that the soldier's behavior was "completely at odds with the values the army expects from its fighters."
Earlier in April, another Israeli soldier was recorded smashing a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon. In occupied East Jerusalem, a 48-year-old nun was assaulted in front of the Cenacle, a sacred site on Mount Zion revered by both Christians and Jews.
