The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has accused Iran of sponsoring terrorism in Nigeria and attempting to extend its influence through extremist networks operating within the country.
Freeman made the allegation on Friday during an interaction with journalists, warning that Tehran’s activities are no longer confined to the Middle East but have expanded into parts of Africa, including Nigeria and the broader West African region.
According to the envoy, some organisations operating in Nigeria maintain ideological or operational links with Iran and allegedly receive support from the Iranian government. He specifically referenced the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, claiming the group is backed by the Iranian regime.
“We know that there are certain movements, for example the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, which is sponsored and backed by the Iranian regime,” Freeman said, adding that statements of support from Iranian leaders for the group have been publicly documented.
The ambassador further alleged that Iran’s involvement in different regions forms part of a broader strategy aimed at supporting militant organisations and violent campaigns around the world.
Speaking on tensions in the Middle East, Freeman said Israel’s actions against Iran were driven largely by security concerns, particularly Tehran’s nuclear and missile development programmes.
“For 47 years, Iran has had a policy of ‘death to Israel, death to America,’” he said, accusing the country of backing groups involved in attacks against Israelis and Jewish communities globally.
Freeman argued that when a nation openly threatens another while developing nuclear capabilities, defensive measures become necessary to prevent potential destruction.
Responding to criticisms surrounding Israel’s own military strength, the ambassador maintained that the focus should remain on Iran’s actions and rhetoric toward Israel.
“The issue here is Iran,” he said, alleging that the country has repeatedly declared its intention to destroy Israel.
Freeman also claimed that intelligence assessments have linked Tehran to extremist activities in several parts of the world, extending beyond the Middle East into other regions.
He further criticised the Iranian government over its handling of domestic protests, accusing authorities in Tehran of suppressing demonstrations with force.
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On Israel’s recent military operations, the envoy insisted that the country seeks to minimise civilian casualties by focusing strikes on strategic military facilities.
“We everything we can to limit innocent civilian casualties,” he said, contrasting this with what he described as Iranian-backed attacks on civilian populations.
Freeman added that Israel remains open to strengthening security cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. According to him, both countries already maintain diplomatic relations that include collaboration in intelligence sharing, agriculture, healthcare and technology.
The ambassador also referenced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting that Israel is willing to deepen partnerships with Nigeria to tackle insecurity and support stability in the region.
