Israeli Soldier’s Cigarette in Virgin Mary Statue Sparks Military Probe

Israel’s military has opened an investigation after a photo emerged showing a soldier placing a cigarette into the mouth of a Virgin Mary statue in the Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon. The image was shared online this week and drew swift condemnation from senior officers. This act follows other reports of Israeli troops desecrating religious sites in the area, including damage to a statue of Jesus last month. Lebanese media say forces have also bulldozed solar panels, homes, roads and olive trees vital to local communities. As Israel steps up strikes against Hezbollah positions across Lebanon, local officials warn that widespread destruction could leave displaced residents with nowhere to return. Concerns are also rising over the impact on Christian communities caught in the conflict.

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