Israeli soldier pictured smashing up a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer

The soldier was seen smashing the weapon onto the crucifix, which had been turned upside down (Picture: X)

An Israeli soldier was photographed hitting the head of Jesus Christ in a crucifix with a sledgehammer, sparking outrage and condemnation.

The photo, taken in southern Lebanon, where Israel is continuing their campaign to establish a ‘buffer region’ outside of its own territory, prompted outcry from prominent politicians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the photo was real, writing on X: ‘I condemn the act in the strongest terms. We express regret for the incident, and for any hurt this has caused to believers in Lebanon and around the world....