Israel Accuses Iran of Sponsoring Terrorism in Nigeria

Israel has renewed claims that Iran sponsors terrorism worldwide, including in Nigeria, amid an ongoing diplomatic row between the two countries over security allegations.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, said Iran’s involvement in terrorism is well documented and cannot be dismissed by public denials.

The statement followed comments by Iran’s envoy to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, who, during an appearance on Arise Television on March 8, denied accusations that Tehran supports extremist activities in Nigeria or across West Africa.

Freeman countered the denial, insisting that Iran has for decades been identified as a major state sponsor of militant groups globally.

“For decades, Iran has been widely identified as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, providing funding, weapons, training, and strategic direction to terrorist organisations such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis,” Freeman said.

He added that Iran-linked operations have extended beyond the Middle East, citing incidents in Argentina, Bulgaria, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Freeman also referenced the October 7 attacks by Hamas against Israeli civilians, alleging that Iranian leaders publicly praised the assault and encouraged further attacks against Israel.

Highlighting Iran’s alleged links to Nigeria, Freeman cited a 2010 case where Nigerian authorities intercepted Iranian weapons at Apapa Port in Lagos, reportedly hidden in cargo containers and destined for armed groups in West Africa. He also mentioned a 2013 security operation in Abuja and Kano, which uncovered a weapons cache and led to the arrest of individuals connected to Hezbollah.

“The Iranian regime can make as many statements as they like, but facts speak louder than words. Iran remains the world’s largest sponsor of terrorism and has supported the Islamic Movement of Nigeria for years,” Freeman added.

He alleged that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has met with the IMN leader Ibrahim Zakzaky and praised his activism.

The Israeli embassy said the statement aimed to counter what it described as misinformation about Iran’s global activities, stressing that terrorism threatens the security and stability of nations worldwide, including Nigeria.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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