Christians are facing severe persecution and violence across many parts of the Muslim world, yet Pope Francis, in his upcoming book Hope, has chosen to focus on allegations against Israel, accusing it of committing a so-called "genocide" against Palestinian Muslims in Gaza. This assertion is both unfounded and profoundly troubling, especially considering the glaring silence from the Vatican on the systematic and widespread atrocities being committed against Christians by jihadist forces in Africa and beyond.
The allegations of genocide against Israel lack basis. The population in Gaza has consistently grown, increasing by almost 3% last year alone. In contrast, Christians across Africa are being subjected to widespread violence, including mass killings, forced conversions, kidnappings, and sexual violence by radical Islamist groups. These acts are not isolated but systematic campaigns aimed at eradicating Christian communities. However, rather than addressing these atrocities and defending his own flock, the Pope has opted to point fingers at Israel, a nation defending itself against similar jihadist threats.
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Africa has become the epicenter of radical Islamic terrorism. In Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Niger, the Central African Republic, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon, Christians endure relentless attacks. Churches, schools, hospitals, and even cemeteries are being destroyed. In 2024, a report from the Africa Center for Strategic Studies revealed that more than 45 million Africans have become refugees, internally displaced persons, or asylum seekers due to escalating violence. Despite these staggering figures, Pope Francis has not called for investigations or action against the perpetrators of these crimes.
In Nigeria, one of the most dangerous countries for Christians, a Christian is killed every two hours. Since 2009, over 150,000 people, mostly Christians, have been murdered by jihadist groups such as Boko Haram. Women and girls are kidnapped, raped, and forced into sexual slavery. Thousands of homes and places of worship have been destroyed. Despite these horrors, there has been no significant statement or action from the Vatican to address this ongoing crisis.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has suffered approximately six million deaths due to religious conflict since 1996. Millions are displaced, and Christian women face abductions, rape, and forced marriages in areas controlled by Islamic terrorists. Similar patterns of violence and oppression are evident in Burkina Faso, Somalia, Mali, Mozambique, and Central African Republic. Yet, these tragic realities remain largely unacknowledged by the Pope.
In North Africa, Christians continue to face severe discrimination and persecution. In Egypt, Coptic Christians are targeted for kidnapping and forced conversion. Many young women have vanished, with families receiving no justice or acknowledgment of their plight. In Algeria, Protestant churches have been shut down, and Christians face imprisonment simply for practicing their faith. Pastor Youssef Ourahmane, for example, was sentenced to prison for conducting an unauthorized worship service. The Pope’s silence on these issues stands in stark contrast to his outspoken criticism of Israel.
The persecution extends beyond Africa. In Pakistan, Christians are accused of blasphemy under false pretenses, leading to death sentences or mob violence. In Iran, Christian converts face imprisonment, torture, and death. Countries like Bangladesh and Afghanistan witness similar atrocities, with Christians subjected to forced conversions, kidnappings, and violent attacks. Despite this global crisis, Pope Francis has not made these Christians a central focus of his advocacy.
The Pope’s decision to target Israel is especially perplexing given that Israel’s actions in Gaza are aimed at defending its citizens from terrorism. The Israeli military’s operations specifically target terrorist organizations that use civilians as human shields, not civilians themselves. In stark contrast, jihadist groups actively and intentionally target Christians in their campaigns of terror. By accusing Israel of genocide, the Pope not only distorts reality but also undermines the legitimacy of a nation’s right to defend itself.
Pope Francis’ apparent willingness to ignore the suffering of millions of Christians while condemning Israel raises serious questions about his leadership and priorities. It suggests a troubling strategy: divert attention from his failure to protect Christians by blaming others. This approach not only fails to address the urgent needs of persecuted Christians but also exacerbates divisions and fuels misinformation.
The Christian communities facing Islamist oppression deserve a leader who will advocate for their safety and survival. From Nigeria to Egypt, Pakistan to Iran, these Christians are in dire need of international attention and support. Yet, Pope Francis has chosen a path that distances himself from their struggles while scapegoating Israel—a democratic nation combating the same radical ideologies that threaten Christians globally.
It is imperative for the Vatican to redirect its focus. The atrocities committed against Christians in the Muslim world demand immediate and sustained action. Investigations, international advocacy, and calls for accountability are essential. Leaders like Pope Francis have a moral obligation to speak out and stand with the oppressed, regardless of the political sensitivities involved.
By remaining silent on the plight of Christians and unfairly criticizing Israel, Pope Francis risks alienating those who look to him for guidance and support. It is time for the Vatican to take a principled stand against the real perpetrators of violence and injustice and to champion the rights and dignity of all persecuted Christians around the world.
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