Amid rising diplomatic tensions, Israel has reiterated its claims that Iran supports terrorism worldwide, including activities in Nigeria.
In a statement released Tuesday in Abuja, Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, stressed that Iran’s history of sponsoring terrorism is well-documented and cannot be dismissed by public denials.
The comments came shortly after Iran’s envoy to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, appeared on Arise Television on March 8, where he rejected allegations that Tehran finances or facilitates extremist activities in Nigeria and across West Africa.
Freeman countered these denials, asserting that Iran has long been recognized as a leading state sponsor of militant groups globally. He cited Iran’s alleged support for organisations such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, including providing funding, weapons, training, and strategic guidance.
The exchange underscores a deepening diplomatic row between the two countries, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives over Iran’s role in regional security.