UN human rights office concerned over Israeli damage to Jesus statue in Lebanon, urges accountability

The UN human rights office expressed concern Wednesday over a recent incident in which a member of the Israeli military damaged a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon.

Spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan told Anadolu in a written statement that the office is aware of the incident and Israel's announcement of the matter is being addressed.

He warned that such incidents raise concerns under both international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

"Such acts are concerning under international humanitarian law, which requires respect for and protection of religious sites, symbols as cultural property, as well as under international human rights law as such acts may amount to an interference with the right to freedom of religion," he stressed.

The spokesperson also recalled Israel’s obligations under international law.

"We recall Israel's obligation to ensure a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation, and that those responsible are held to account," Al-Kheetan said.

A photo circulating online of an Israeli soldier using a sledgehammer to smash a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon sparked international outrage. It also drew condemnation from religious and political figures.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar issued an apology Monday, calling it “grave and disgraceful,” and said an investigation had been opened to hold those responsible accountable.

The Israeli army said it views the incident with “utmost seriousness” and that the conduct does not reflect the values expected of its troops.