Israeli soldier smashing Jesus statue in Lebanon triggers outcry

A photograph showing an Israeli soldier damaging a statue of Jesus Christ in Lebanon has triggered widespread outrage, including in the United States, where criticism of Israel has also emerged from sections of Donald Trump’s support base.

Although the incident is one among several allegations of abuses attributed to Israel in recent years, it drew global condemnation and prompted a response from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In the US, where backing for Israel has traditionally been strong, particularly among right-wing groups aligned with Christian values, the act intensified criticism from some Republican voices, Al Jazeera reported.

Commentator Tucker Carlson argued that such incidents are not uncommon, suggesting that similar actions have gone underreported and are now gaining visibility due to social media.

Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene also highlighted the scale of US military aid to Israel, questioning continued support in light of the incident.

The reaction reflects a broader shift within segments of the “Make America Great Again” constituency, where scepticism toward the US-Israel alliance has been growing. This comes amid pressure on Trump over US involvement in regional conflicts, including tensions linked to Iran.

Recent opinion polls indicate that public support for Israel in the US has declined, even as it continues to enjoy strong backing in Congress.

However, dissenting voices within Republican circles appear to be increasing, partly due to prolonged conflicts in the Middle East and concerns over attacks affecting Christian sites.

The incident reportedly occurred near the town of Debl in southern Lebanon and prompted a swift response from Netanyahu, who said he strongly condemned the act and that military authorities had launched a criminal investigation, promising disciplinary action against those responsible. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also denounced the act, stating that it went against Israel’s values.

While some Israeli supporters described the episode as an isolated act by an individual soldier, critics argued that it reflects a broader pattern of attacks on religious sites, including churches, in the region.

Past incidents cited include vandalism at a church in Deir Mimas in 2024 and the destruction of a statue of Saint George in the southern Lebanese village of Yaroun last year.

In Gaza, Israel has faced allegations of repeatedly striking religious sites during the ongoing conflict, with local authorities reporting destruction to more than 1,000 mosques and three churches.