Israel faced widespread condemnation Monday after one of its soldiers was caught on camera vandalizing a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon.
The criticism forced Israel to issue a formal apology and promise "harsh action" against the serviceman in question.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar apologized, saying: "The damaging of a Christian religious symbol by an IDF soldier in southern Lebanon is grave and disgraceful."
Sa'ar said in a social media post on X stressed that "this shameful action is completely contrary to our values."
"We apologize for this incident and to every Christian whose feelings were hurt," he added.
