Dare Babalola
The Nigerian government has urged for immediate calm and restraint as tensions escalate in the Gulf region following coordinated military strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The attack has sparked retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli targets, with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard vowing severe revenge and the international community on high alert.
In a coordinated attack, the US and Israel launched missile strikes on Iran early Saturday, prompting Iran to retaliate with strikes in several Gulf countries later that day.
In a statement, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, urged all parties involved in the unfolding situation to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions capable of intensifying hostilities.
He emphasised the need to prioritise dialogue over confrontation, urging strict adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Convention, particularly with respect to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
“Nigeria calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that could intensify hostilities, and to prioritise dialogue over confrontation,” Ebienfa said.
He stressed the imperative of restraint in the use of lethal force to prevent further loss of civilian lives and to safeguard established norms of international law.
It noted that preserving the existing legal architecture governing the use of force remains essential for protecting victims, safeguarding civilian populations, and maintaining international order.
Ebienfa also reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding foreign policy stance rooted in non-alignment, multilateralism, and constructive engagement, pledging support for renewed diplomatic efforts within established international and regional frameworks aimed at resolving the crisis.
The diplomat also welcomed confidence-building initiatives, mediation efforts, and dialogue among stakeholders, encouraging all parties to pursue a peaceful resolution in the interest of collective security and shared prosperity.
“The Government of Nigeria stands in solidarity with the international community in its call for calm and remains steadfast in its conviction that sustainable peace can only be secured through diplomacy, mutual respect, and faithful adherence to international law,” he added.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and respect for international norms, underscoring the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing emerging global security challenges.
