South African Rabbi Criticizes Pope, Archbishop

South Africa's Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein has sharply criticized Pope Francis and Archbishop Justin Welby for their perceived abandonment of biblical values and support for a ruling by the International Court of Justice that deems Israel's presence in the West Bank unlawful. In a video message, Goldstein accused the two leaders of indifference to the persecution of Christians and hostility towards Israel, claiming their silence strengthens extremist forces. He emphasized the need for religious leaders to defend Western values in light of rising jihadist threats. Goldstein challenged Welby's support for the ICJ ruling, suggesting it contradicts the biblical claim to the land of Israel. He questioned whether Welby truly believes in the biblical narratives regarding the Jewish connection to the Holy Land. This critique highlights a growing divide between Jewish and Christian leaders over interpretations of biblical authority and contemporary geopolitical issues.