The Nigerian government has called for restraint from all parties involved in the recent Middle East conflict.
Francisca Omayuli, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for Iran and Israel to exercise restraint amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and prevent further escalation in the region.
In the wake of Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Israel, world leaders, including those from the G7 nations, have condemned the actions and urged efforts toward de-escalation. They particularly stressed the importance of ending the crisis in Gaza through an immediate ceasefire.
Iran’s attack, retaliating against an earlier airstrike in Syria, prompted heightened fears of an Israeli counterstrike, although most incoming projectiles were intercepted. The United States, a key ally of Israel, emphasized the need to avoid further escalation and steered away from advocating for a military response.
President Joe Biden reaffirmed strong US support for Israel while advising against a hasty military reaction. Reports suggest Biden encouraged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from immediate retaliation.
Amidst these developments, Israeli officials cautioned Iran about the consequences of further escalation. Netanyahu convened his war cabinet amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Throughout the night, Israeli citizens sought shelter as air raid sirens sounded, while defense systems intercepted incoming threats. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned against reckless retaliation from Israel, promising a strong response in such a scenario.
