Israel Accuses Iran Of Supporting Shi’ite Groups In Nigeria

[Mudhab]

The Michael Freeman, Israel's ambassador to Nigeria, has accused Iran of sponsoring extremist activities in different parts of the world, including Nigeria. He claimed that Iran supports groups that aim to create instability in other countries while continuing its long-standing hostility toward Israel.

Freeman made these statements during an interview on the The Morning Show aired by Arise News. During the discussion, he said Iran is the only country within the United Nations that openly expresses a desire to destroy another sovereign nation. According to him, Iranian leaders have repeatedly threatened Israel over the years.

The ambassador further alleged that the Iranian government has spent decades supporting militant groups around the world. He claimed that Tehran has provided backing to organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah, which Israel considers terrorist groups.

Freeman also alleged that Iran played a role in the attack carried out by Hamas against Israel on October 7. According to him, Iranian influence and activities aimed at spreading instability have been noticed in several regions, including parts of Europe, Australia, and Africa.

Speaking specifically about Nigeria, Freeman claimed that the Islamic Movement of Nigeria receives support from the Iranian government. The group is widely associated with its leader, Ibrahim Zakzaky, a prominent Shi'ite cleric in Nigeria.

The ambassador added that statements from Iran's leadership, including social media posts by the country's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, have publicly shown support for such movements. He concluded by saying that Iran is working in several regions, including West Africa, to influence events and potentially destabilize countries.

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