IDF Soldier’s Actions in Lebanon Raise Questions

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) may need to clarify the events involving one of its soldiers accused of destroying a cross with a sledgehammer in Debel, Lebanon. This incident reportedly unfolded while at least six onlookers were present.

Initially, the IDF sought to address the situation through social media updates, but further information has surfaced, prompting skepticism about their narrative.

“Are they playing with us?”

Following the incident, the IDF stated that both the soldier who recorded the event and the one who damaged the cross would face 30 days in military prison. Additionally, they announced plans to interrogate the witnesses. They shared still images, including a photograph of a replacement cross claimed to have been donated by the IDF.

However, conflicting accounts of the incident have come to light.

Related: IDF soldier arrested after destroying Jesus statue with sledgehammer – public reaction

A viral post from the X account “hillbilly catholic” suggested that Italian soldiers from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon had stepped in to replace the cross after the damage occurred. The accompanying image included several soldiers adorned with Italian flags alongside priests and Bishop Paolo Borgia.

Another post highlighted a discrepancy—the cross depicted in IDF’s posts appeared to differ in design when compared to that shared by “hillbilly catholic.”

“Are They Playing Us?” the account questioned.

The photo was part of a broader collection from a local Facebook page known as Debel Alerts. On Tuesday, this account shared information from Father Claudio, an Italian priest who claimed to be in coordination with UNIFIL commanders to restore the cross. He also mentioned that a “signature of support” from UNIFIL should arrive shortly.

Additionally, a video from the same page captured the new crucifix being transported.

Debel Alerts later provided another update, showcasing the installation of the replacement cross with UNIFIL’s assistance. The new cross appears to have been placed in the original location, which contrasts with the smaller cross the IDF initially posted.

The official Debel Municipality account confirmed Bishop Paolo Borgia’s involvement in the cross installation procession. However, it also brought to light an unexpected detail.

Some social media users mocked the IDF’s images, suggesting they exaggerated the size of the new cross. Debel’s update included a photo of an individual, seemingly standing among priests, holding a significantly smaller cross similar to the one showcased in the IDF’s earlier post.

While this image seemed to refute claims that the IDF’s posting was misleading, other questions linger.

Notably, neither Debel Alerts nor Debel Municipality referenced any purported efforts by the IDF to facilitate the cross replacement, despite their claims of active involvement upon receiving reports of the incident. Moreover, the IDF has not acknowledged the role of UNIFIL or Bishop Borgia despite their clear influence on the matter.

It’s also worth mentioning that the IDF’s substitute cross does not effectively replace the one destroyed; the UNIFIL’s new version is quite similar in size and placement, unlike the smaller cross presented by the IDF.

As of now, attempts to reach out to the IDF, UNIFIL, the city of Debel, and the Lebanese embassy via the Vatican Press Office have not yielded immediate responses.