The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, calling for an immediate end to hostilities and urging both nations to exercise maximum restraint.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria condemned Israel’s recent strike on Iran, describing it as a move that has dangerously heightened tensions in the already fragile Middle East region.
“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,” the statement read.
Nigeria warned that the continued cycle of retaliation threatens not only civilian lives but could further destabilize the Middle East and disrupt global peace and economic stability.
The crisis took a dramatic turn on Friday, June 13, when Israel launched a large-scale air offensive, striking nearly 100 targets across Iran. These included critical nuclear and military sites, resulting in the deaths of several senior Iranian military officials.
Among those killed were General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, and Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, described the Israeli assault as a “declaration of war” and vowed a “bitter and painful” response, with the Iranian military declaring that there would be “no limits” to their retaliation.
Reacting to the development, Nigeria called on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to take urgent action to de-escalate the crisis and create a platform for meaningful dialogue.
“As a nation deeply committed to peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria urges all parties to prioritise diplomacy over confrontation,” the government said.
“The continued conflict risks spiraling into a broader regional war with dire consequences for international security and development. Military action is not a substitute for negotiation.”
Nigeria reiterated its readiness to support all sincere efforts aimed at restoring calm and fostering peace in the region. It also emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and strict adherence to international law.
“The path to peace lies not in missiles and retaliation, but in constructive engagement and collective diplomacy,” the statement concluded.
