Nigeria Calls For Restraint As Iran-israel Conflict Escalates
The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, describing the attacks as a dangerous escalation of hostilities between the two nations.
In a statement released on Saturday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria expressed deep concern over the worsening conflict, which has seen both countries engage in sustained missile and aerial assaults.
Calling for an immediate end to the violence, the government urged both Iran and Israel to exercise maximum restraint, warning that continued retaliation could further endanger civilian lives and destabilize the Middle East.
“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria strongly condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran, which has significantly heightened tensions between both nations,” the statement read. “We urge an immediate cessation of hostilities and call on both parties to embrace restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.”
The government warned that the cycle of reprisal attacks not only threatens innocent lives but also risks dragging the broader Middle East into deeper turmoil—posing serious implications for international security and economic stability.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence and diplomatic conflict resolution, Nigeria emphasized the need for dialogue over military confrontation. It also called on the international community, especially the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts to de-escalate the crisis and promote negotiations between the warring sides.
“Military action is not a substitute for dialogue,” the statement added. “Sustainable peace must be rooted in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.”
Nigeria pledged support for all sincere initiatives aimed at restoring calm and fostering peace in the region.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Israel’s latest offensive on Friday targeted nearly 100 locations across Iran, including nuclear and military sites. The strikes led to the deaths of several top Iranian military officials, including Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Mohammad Bagheri and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami.
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the attacks as a “declaration of war,” warning that Israel would face a “bitter and painful” consequence. The Iranian military also declared that there would be “no limits” to its response.