IDF soldiers from Division 91 sparked international backlash after filming themselves staging a mock Christian wedding ceremony inside a Maronite church in the Lebanese village of Deir Mimas. The footage, which the soldiers shared on social media, shows them performing a mock wedding between two soldiers, who later wrestle on the church floor while others laugh.
"What if this happened in a synagogue? They'd be screaming 'antisemitism,'" said Wadie Abu Nassar, coordinator of the Holy Land Christian Forum.
The Vatican has reportedly condemned the incident as "outrageous" and sought verification of the video's authenticity.
This follows another recent incident where soldiers allegedly damaged Christmas decorations in a Christian home in southern Lebanon. "We stayed quiet then after internal consultation," Abu Nassar explained. "But now we must speak up before this behavior continues."
The IDF has issued a strong condemnation: "This serious act contradicts IDF values and orders. The IDF respects all religions and condemns such behavior. The incident is under investigation and those involved will face disciplinary action."
The controversy comes at the exact same time as sensitive military operations are taking place in southern Lebanon, with IDF forces crossing the Litani River for the first time since 2000.
