From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran, warning that the escalating hostilities between both nations pose a grave threat to regional and global peace.
Tensions in the Middle East reached a boiling point on Friday following Israel’s sweeping military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and long-range missile capabilities.
The airstrikes triggered a wave of retaliatory missile and aerial attacks, escalating fears of a broader regional conflict.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as a “targeted military action to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s survival,” Nigeria expressed deep concern over the spiraling violence.
In a statement issued Saturday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria condemned the Israeli action and urged both sides to show restraint.
“Nigeria expresses its grave concern and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities. We urge both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.”
The statement warned that continued retaliatory attacks not only endanger civilian lives but risk destabilising the wider Middle East, with far-reaching implications for global security and economic stability.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and multilateral diplomacy, the ministry said, “We call on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.”
Nigeria also urged the international community—particularly the United Nations Security Council—to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to create platforms for constructive engagement between the warring parties.
“The path to lasting peace lies in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law. Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the statement added.
