Nigeria Urges Restraint Amid Rising Tensions Between Iran, Israel
In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, the Federal Government of Nigeria has called for restraint and immediate de-escalation, urging both countries to prioritize diplomatic engagement over military confrontation.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa condemned the hostilities, particularly the preemptive airstrikes reportedly launched by Israel on June 13 targeting over 100 sites in Iran, including military and nuclear facilities.
Iran retaliated with a barrage of missiles and drones, deepening fears of a broader regional war.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria strongly condemns the cycle of violence currently playing out between the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran. We urge both sides to exercise utmost restraint and return to the path of dialogue,” the statement read.
Nigeria emphasized that military action cannot replace diplomacy and warned that continued escalation could result in further civilian casualties and destabilize the already volatile Middle East region.
The government also called on the United Nations Security Council and the wider international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to bring both nations to the negotiating table.
“It is imperative that world leaders work collectively to prevent a conflict that could have far-reaching humanitarian and geopolitical consequences,” the statement added.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for international law, and multilateral dialogue as the only sustainable path to resolving international disputes.
The country also expressed readiness to support sincere peace initiatives aimed at restoring calm and stability.
The recent confrontation has already triggered the closure of airspace across parts of the Middle East, disrupted international flights, and drawn concern from global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
As tensions mount, Nigeria joins a growing list of countries urging calm and caution in hopes of averting a full-blown conflict.
