IDF launches probe into soldiers destroying solar panels in Lebanese village

The IDF has launched an investigation into a video in which Israeli soldiers are seen destroying solar panels in a village in Lebanon, Israeli media reported on Saturday night.

The destruction took place in the village of Debel, the same village in which an IDF soldier was photographed smashing a statue of Jesus last week.

A source in the village told Israeli public broadcaster KAN News that the area had previously belonged to Colonel Akel al-Hashim, a deputy commander of the South Lebanon Army, before his assassination by the IDF in the year 2000.

KAN also reported that the solar panels were civilian infrastructure, being used by hundreds of residents of the village who had not been evacuated from their homes, with the IDF's permission.

"The actions seen in the video are not in line with the IDF's values and the conduct expected of its soldiers," the IDF told KAN. "The incident is under investigation. Based on its findings, command measures will be taken accordingly."

Soldier who smashed Jesus statue removed from combat

The soldier who smashed the statue of Jesus was removed from combat duty and given 30 days of military detention, the IDF announced on Tuesday, following the conclusion of its investigation into the incident.

The soldier who photographed the act was given the same punishment.

Six other soldiers who were present at the scene and “did not act to stop the incident or report it” have been summoned for “clarification discussions” to be held later, the IDF added, after which additional measures will be determined.