"I Am Shocked": Netanyahu Breaks Silence on Jesus Statue Scandal
Prime Minister Netanyahu condemns an IDF soldier for smashing a Jesus statue in Lebanon, calling the act "shocking and sad." As a criminal investigation begins, Netanyahu apologizes to the global Christian community, insisting that Israel remains a sanctuary for religious freedom in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a sharp condemnation on Monday following a viral video showing an IDF soldier destroying a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon. Expressing "deep regret" for the pain caused to the Christian community, the Prime Minister announced that a criminal investigation is already underway.
The incident, which sparked international outrage after footage circulated on social media, prompted a formal response from the Prime Minister’s Office in English to address the global Christian community.
Netanyahu emphasized that the soldier's actions do not represent the State of Israel or its core principles.
"As a Jewish state, Israel preserves and advocates for the Jewish values of tolerance and mutual respect between Jews and believers of all faiths," Netanyahu wrote. "All religions flourish in our country, and we view members of all faiths as equal partners in building our society and our region."
Criminal Investigation Launched
The Prime Minister confirmed that the military hierarchy is treating the event as a serious breach of discipline and law.
"Yesterday, like the vast majority of Israelis, I was shocked and saddened to discover that an IDF soldier harmed a Catholic religious symbol in southern Lebanon. I condemn this act in the strongest possible terms," Netanyahu stressed. He added that military authorities are conducting a criminal investigation and that "severe disciplinary measures" will be taken against the perpetrator.
In his statement, Netanyahu drew a sharp contrast between the status of Christians in Israel and the rest of the Middle East:
"We express regret over the incident and for any pain caused to believers in Lebanon and around the world," the Prime Minister concluded.