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2h ago

Fragile Lebanon Truce Strained by UNIFIL Ambush as Israel Probes Soldier Over Smashed Jesus Statue

The probes highlight a fragile truce that keeps forces in contact, leaving many unsure about returning home.

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TOPSHOT - A French contingent of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) patrols the area as displaced residents make their way back to their homes in the southern Lebanese area of Al-Qasmiyeh on April 18, 2026. Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire on April 16 in order to negotiate an end to six weeks of war between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. The conflict saw massive Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon and also a ground invasion in the south. (Photo by MAHMOUD ZAYYAT / AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The UNIFIL patrol that came under fire Saturday near Ghandouriyeh left French Staff Sgt. Florian Montorio dead and three peacekeepers wounded, with France and UNIFIL pointing to Hezbollah and the group denying responsibility.
  • Lebanon’s Military Tribunal and army opened investigations as Emmanuel Macron urged arrests, and UNIFIL said the team had been clearing explosives to reopen access to an isolated post.
  • The Israeli military confirmed late Sunday that a viral photo showing a soldier striking a Jesus statue in the Christian village of Debel was authentic and said a disciplinary and criminal probe is underway.
  • Israel says its forces will use full force against threats during the 10‑day truce that began Friday and has carried out demolitions in border towns while warning civilians not to return to villages inside its declared forward line.
  • Some displaced families tried to go back as Lebanese engineers reopened damaged roads and bridges, yet sporadic blasts and new warnings pushed many to turn around, reflecting a ceasefire that allows contact and keeps tensions high along the border.