By John Ogunsemore
The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned Israel’s recent strike on Iran, saying the action escalated hostilities in the Middle East.
This is contained in a Saturday statement signed by spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
On Friday, Israel launched strikes against key Iranian assets, targeting nuclear facilities and military sites, including the Natanz enrichment plant.
The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” killed top Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists, and at least 78 people, aiming to disrupt Iran’s nuclear programme and destabilise its regime.
Iran retaliated with over 100 ballistic missiles and drones, hitting Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities and killing at least four and injuring dozens.
The conflict has escalated tensions, with Iran threatening further ‘history-making’ responses and Israel vowing to continue strikes.
The United States, which denied direct involvement, urged Tehran to negotiate on its nuclear programme, while regional allies like France and Türkiye expressed concern over a wider conflict.
The Nigerian government urged restraint on both sides, warning that continued retaliation risks not only civilian lives but also threatens to destabilise the wider Middle East, with serious consequences for international peace and economic stability.
The statement reads, “The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran that has led to an escalation of hostilities between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel, marked by sustained missile and aerial exchanges across both territories.
“Nigeria expresses its grave concern and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.
“The continued cycle of retaliation not only endangers civilian lives but threatens to plunge the broader Middle East into further instability, with implications for international security and economic development.”
The Nigerian government emphasised the importance of dialogue over confrontation while reaffirming its longstanding commitment to peaceful coexistence and diplomatic resolution of conflicts.
It urged the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to provide a platform for constructive engagement.
The Nigerian government maintained that military action is not a substitute for negotiation, stressing that enduring peace must be built on diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.
“As a nation deeply committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria calls on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.
“We urge the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to provide a platform for constructive engagement.
“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 de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the statement further reads.
