The Israeli military says it views with "great severity" the actions of the soldier, as the US ambassador demands "swift" consequences.

The army also noted that it is working to assist the community in restoring the statue to its place.

A viral photo of an Israeli soldier smashing a statue of Jesus in Lebanon sparked outrage, with leaders and activists condemning the desecration.

Israel's army confirms authenticity of image showing soldier striking a Jesus statue in Lebanon, condemning the act as unacceptable.

The Israel army said it viewed the incident with "great severity", adding that the "soldier's conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops".

The Israel army said it viewed the incident with "great severity", adding that the "soldier's conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops".

Military says it views incident with 'great severity,' vows it will be handled 'through the chain of command' and that IDF will help restore statue; image has circulated widely online

An army spokesman said the act does not align with the IDF’s values. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The army said appropriate measures will be taken against those involved. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Israeli army said on Sunday that it was looking into the authenticity of an image circulating on social media that appears to show a soldier in south Lebanon hitting a statue of Jesus Christ with a hammer.