Israeli Envoy Says Iran Spreading Terrorism In Nigeria, Backing Islamic Movement Shiites’ Protests
Israeli Envoy Accuses Iran Of Backing Extremist Groups In Nigeria
March 6, 2026
The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has accused Iran of spreading terrorism in Nigeria and attempting to destabilise parts of West Africa through support for extremist groups.
Freeman made the allegation during an interview with Arise News on Friday, claiming that Tehran backs the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), a group often referred to as Shiites.
According to him, Iran’s support for the group has been openly acknowledged by its leadership. He cited statements made by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, as evidence of Tehran’s backing.
“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 the support had been publicly documented.
He further alleged that Iran’s activities aimed at destabilisation were not limited to Nigeria but extended across West Africa.
Concerns Over Iran’s Military Ambitions
Freeman also addressed the wider tensions in the Middle East, describing Israel’s actions as defensive measures against threats from Iran.
He accused Tehran of promoting hostility toward Israel while pursuing nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.
“For decades, Iran has promoted hostility against Israel and the United States while supporting militant groups around the world,” he said, arguing that Israel’s actions were intended to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Israel’s Nuclear Policy
Responding to questions about Israel’s alleged nuclear capability, Freeman insisted that the country has never officially declared possessing nuclear weapons.
He reiterated Israel’s longstanding policy that it would not be the first nation to introduce nuclear weapons into the Middle East, while maintaining that the current international concern should focus on Iran’s activities.
Global Allegations
The ambassador also alleged that Iran had been linked to activities aimed at spreading unrest in different parts of the world, including Europe, South America and Africa.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions following the ongoing conflict involving Israel, Iran and the United States.
The situation has also sparked reactions in Nigeria, including protests by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria after the reported killing of Ali Khamenei.
Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Nigeria temporarily suspended operations in Abuja until next Monday over security concerns and fears of possible protests in the Federal Capital Territory.