An Israeli soldier was photographed smashing a Jesus statue with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon, and the Israeli military confirmed the image is authentic. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the act and pledged harsh discipline; the IDF has launched a criminal investigation. This sparked outrage from Vatican officials, the Italian government, and American evangelical leaders—groups that have been critical of Israel's military campaigns in Gaza and Iran. The incident is part of a broader pattern the Guardian documents: other religious sites in south Lebanon, including mosques dating back centuries, have also been damaged by Israeli forces during the invasion, raising questions about compliance with international humanitarian law that prohibits targeting places of worship.