The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has accused Iran of supporting extremist activities in Nigeria and other parts of the world. Speaking during an interview on Arise News, he claimed that the Iranian government funds groups aimed at destabilizing countries while continuing its hostility toward Israel.

Freeman said Iran is the only country within the United Nations that openly expresses a desire to destroy another sovereign state. According to him, Tehran has repeatedly threatened Israel and has pursued actions over several decades that align with that objective.

The envoy further alleged that Iran has supported militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. He also claimed that Iran played a role in the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which intensified tensions in the Middle East.

Freeman said Iranian activities linked to instability have been reported in several regions of the world, including parts of Europe, Australia, and Africa. He warned that these actions are part of what he described as a wider strategy to expand influence and challenge Israel’s security.

Speaking about Nigeria, the ambassador alleged that the Islamic Movement of Nigeria receives backing from Iran. The group is led by cleric Ibrahim Zakzaky, often called El-Zakzaky, and has previously been involved in tensions with Nigerian authorities.

Freeman claimed that statements from Iran’s leadership, including social media posts by Ali Khamenei, have shown open support for the movement. He added that Israel believes Iran is working to spread instability not only in Nigeria but across West Africa.