The United Nations described the destruction of a statue of Christ by an Israeli soldier in southern Lebanon as “shocking,” stressing that attacks on religious symbols are unacceptable.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said during a press briefing that the incident was “disturbing,” noting that swift disciplinary action against those involved, according to reports, is a positive step.

He added that the destruction of religious symbols and places of worship is “unacceptable regardless of religion,” in response to questions comparing the incident with other cases in the region.

The remarks come amid growing international concern over the targeting of religious sites in conflict zones.