23/04/2026
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23/04/2026
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ROME, Apr 23: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday thanked Italian peacekeepers serving in southern Lebanon for donating a new crucifix to the village of Debel, after the original was destroyed by an Israeli soldier in an incident that drew international condemnation.
The original crucifix was smashed by an Israeli soldier earlier this month, sparking outrage across Lebanon and the wider region. The incident was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, prompting swift backlash from local authorities and international observers.
Meloni said images showing the new crucifix being delivered and placed in the same spot as the one destroyed days earlier conveyed "a message of hope, dialogue and peace."
Speaking from Rome, the Italian premier expressed gratitude to the Italian contingent of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for their quick response in replacing the religious symbol.
"The gesture of our peacekeepers reflects Italy's enduring commitment to stability, respect, and interfaith understanding in the region," Meloni said in a statement.
Replacement Crucifix Smaller, More Ornate
Meanwhile, Israel's military said Tuesday it had replaced the crucifix and shared a photograph of the new one on social media. The replacement appeared smaller and more ornate than the original, which had been deliberately smashed by a soldier.
The Israeli military confirmed that two soldiers involved in the episode will be held for a month in military detention. The army described the original act as a "serious violation" of military values and procedures.
Background of the Incident
The destruction of the crucifix in Debel, a Christian village in southern Lebanon, occurred amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The incident drew sharp criticism from Lebanese authorities, Christian leaders, and human rights groups, who called for a full investigation and accountability.
Italy has maintained a significant peacekeeping presence in southern Lebanon under UNIFIL since 1978, with Italian troops playing a key role in monitoring the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel.
