The Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has accused Iran of supporting extremist groups in Nigeria and other parts of the world, alleging that Tehran is involved in efforts aimed at destabilising countries while pursuing its hostility toward Israel.
Freeman made the claims during an appearance on The Morning Show on Arise News, where he said Iran has spent decades backing militant organisations as part of its broader geopolitical strategy.
According to the envoy, Iran is the only country within the United Nations that openly expresses a desire to destroy another sovereign state, referring to repeated threats against Israel.
He alleged that Tehran has supported several militant groups globally, including Hamas and Hezbollah, and claimed Iran was also behind the October 7 attack carried out by Hamas against Israel.
Freeman further stated that Iranian activities aimed at spreading instability have been observed across different regions, including Europe, Australia and parts of Africa.
Speaking specifically about Nigeria, the ambassador alleged that the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), founded by Ibrahim Zakzaky, receives backing from the Iranian government.
He claimed that statements of support from Iran’s leadership — including social media posts by Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei — indicate links between Tehran and the group.
“The issue here is about Iran,” Freeman said during the interview. “Iran has stated its policy is to destroy Israel. Over 47 years, we have seen them sponsor terror organisations and act across different parts of the world, including Nigeria.”
He added that Iran’s activities were aimed at spreading unrest globally as part of its efforts against Israel.
Freeman also warned that Israel would not allow a country that has openly declared hostility toward it to acquire nuclear weapons.
“Iran is working in different areas to destabilise not only Nigeria but all of West Africa,” he said.
Iranian authorities have not publicly responded to the ambassador’s claims.
