The Israeli government has alleged that Iran is supporting extremist activities in Nigeria through groups linked to the Shi’ite movement led by Ibrahim El-Zakzaky.
Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, made the claim during an interview on The Morning Show on Arise News on Friday.
Freeman accused Iran of funding and backing organisations across the world in pursuit of what he described as Tehran’s long-standing hostility toward Israel.
According to the envoy, Iran remains the only member state within the United Nations that openly declares its intention to eliminate another sovereign nation.
He alleged that for decades Iran has supported militant groups and terror organisations globally in a bid to pursue that objective.
Freeman specifically cited groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah, claiming that Tehran provided support for their activities, including the attack carried out by Hamas against Israel on October 7.
The ambassador further alleged that Iranian influence has extended beyond the Middle East, with activities reportedly observed in Europe, Australia and several parts of Africa.
Turning to Nigeria, Freeman claimed that the Islamic Movement of Nigeria receives backing from the Iranian government.
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He said evidence of such ties has been visible through public expressions of support from Iranian leadership, including statements and social media posts by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
Freeman maintained that Iran’s involvement in such movements is part of a broader effort to spread instability in different regions.
According to him, Iranian-backed activities are not limited to Nigeria but extend across West Africa and other parts of the world.
He stressed that Israel would continue to oppose any attempt by Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, warning that such capability could be used to pursue its stated goal of destroying Israel.
Freeman added that the alleged Iranian support for groups operating in Nigeria and other regions underscores what he described as Tehran’s wider strategy to destabilise countries while advancing its geopolitical objectives.