The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent Israeli airstrike on Iran, warning that such military actions are dangerously escalating tensions in the Middle East and risking a broader global crisis.
In an official statement released on Saturday, June 7, 2025, by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Nigeria expressed grave concern over the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, which has seen a surge in missile and aerial attacks over recent days.
“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 statement read.
The 9am News report confirms that the Federal Government stressed the need for diplomatic engagement over retaliation, noting that the ongoing cycle of military action has placed countless civilian lives at risk and threatens to drag the broader region into further instability.
“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 MFA warned.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, and urged the United Nations Security Council and other key international actors to take urgent steps toward de-escalation.
“Military action is not a substitute for negotiation. The path to lasting peace lies in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law,” the statement emphasized.
The condemnation follows a massive Israeli air campaign on Friday, targeting around 100 locations in Iran, including strategic military and nuclear facilities. The strikes reportedly killed several top Iranian military officials, making it one of the most significant escalations in recent years between the two arch-rivals.
Among the dead are:
- General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff
- Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei described the strike as a “declaration of war”, vowing a “bitter and painful” retaliation. Iran’s military also warned there would be “no limits” to their counter-response.
Global Reactions and Call for Dialogue
The growing hostilities have drawn concern from multiple nations and international organizations, with calls for immediate diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from spiraling further.
Nigeria joined that chorus on Saturday, aligning with other voices calling for restraint, dialogue, and respect for international norms.
“Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the MFA stated.
As a non-aligned but peace-driven state, Nigeria emphasized its traditional role as a supporter of diplomatic conflict resolution, especially in matters with significant implications for global peace and economic stability.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
