By Hadiza Abdulkadir
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned Israel’s recent unprovoked strikes on Iran, which have triggered a fresh wave of hostilities between the two Middle Eastern powers. In a statement issued on Friday, the Nigerian government described the escalating conflict as a grave threat to regional and global peace.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, expressed deep concern over the sustained missile and aerial exchanges between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel, calling for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” and restraint from both parties.
“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 statement read.
Nigeria, which has long championed non-aggression and multilateral diplomacy principles, urged Iran and Israel to return to dialogue and constructive engagement. The government also called on the United Nations Security Council and the broader international community to intensify de-escalation efforts and provide diplomatic platforms for resolution.
Reaffirming its stance against military confrontation, the statement noted that “military action is not a substitute for negotiation” and that lasting peace must be built on 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 Ministry added.
The statement comes amid growing international alarm over the potential fallout of the conflict, which many fear could destabilise the already volatile Middle East and disrupt global economic and political systems.