Israeli Military Criticizes Soldiers for Burning Lebanese Flag
Video Shows Soldiers Burning Flag Amidst Conflict with Hezbollah
The Israeli military has condemned the actions of several soldiers who were seen in a viral video burning a Lebanese flag in southern Lebanon.
This incident occurred amidst ongoing military operations against Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, featured individuals in Israeli army uniforms setting the flag on fire while chanting a religious phrase.
Military spokesman Avichay Adraee stated, 'We view the act of some soldiers burning the Lebanese flag in southern Lebanon as a violation of orders, inconsistent with the values of the defense forces, and misaligned with the goals of our military activities in Lebanon.' Adraee emphasized that Israel's conflict is directed against Hezbollah rather than the Lebanese population, highlighting Hezbollah's alignment with terrorism rather than Lebanese identity.
Although the post did not specify any disciplinary measures for the soldiers involved, it did share footage purportedly showing a Hezbollah member replacing a Lebanese flag with the group's banner.
Israel has been engaged in warfare with Hezbollah since September 2024, expanding its military efforts from the Gaza Strip to its northern borders following increased hostilities initiated by Hezbollah in support of Hamas's actions against Israel on October 7, 2023.