The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed condemnation over what it described as “Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran”.
It said the development had led to an escalation of hostilities between Iran and the State of Israel.
The government made its position known in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
NATIONAL POST reports that the hostility between Israel and Iran worsened on Saturday, with several retaliatory strikes reported.
Israel was also reported to have formerly asked the United States to join it in the fight.
However, making its stand known, the Nigerian Government called for the cessation of hostilities and urged both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.
Nigeria said “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.
“As a nation deeply committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria calls on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.
“We urge the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to provide a platform for constructive engagement.
“We reiterate that military action is not a substitute for negotiation. The path to lasting peace lies in 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.”
Meanwhile, Israel, according to Spectacular Index, has officially requested its ally, the United States of America, to join in its ongoing escalation of war against Iran.
"Israel officially requests the US join the ongoing campaign against Iran," the media wrote on X.
This development comes as the conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Iran has intensified over the past 48 hours.
On Friday, Iran fired ballistic missiles targeting major cities in Israel in retaliation for Israel Defence Forces, IDF, attacks on its nuclear site.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged that Israel has launched a retaliatory strike on Tehran, threatening to 'burn down' the city.
Earlier, the Times of Israel reported that US President Donald Trump recently told Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the US would consider striking Iran’s underground Fordo nuclear facility if such a move became necessary to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.