The IDF has released the findings of an internal investigation into an incident in which a soldier damaged a Christian religious symbol in the southern Lebanese village of Dabl.
The probe found that the soldier carried out the act while another soldier filmed it, and that six additional soldiers who were present failed to intervene or report the incident.
According to the findings, the conduct of all involved was a serious violation of IDF orders and values. The IDF emphasized that its operations in Lebanon are directed solely against Hezbollah terrorists and other hostile elements, not against civilians or religious communities. Following the incident, Northern Command has been working to assist the local Christian community in replacing the damaged statue.
As a result of the investigation, the soldier who damaged the symbol and the one who filmed the act were removed from combat roles and each sentenced to 30 days in military detention. The other soldiers present will undergo further disciplinary review. The IDF also announced that procedures regarding respect for religious institutions and symbols will be reinforced across all units operating in the area.