By Paul Joseph
Freeman made the allegation during an interview with reporters on Friday, warning that Tehran’s activities were not limited to the Middle East but had extended into parts of Africa, including Nigeria and the wider West Africa region.
According to the envoy, some groups operating within Nigeria are connected to Iran and receive ideological or operational support from the Iranian government.
He specifically mentioned the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, claiming the group is backed by the Iranian regime.
“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 expressions of support from Iran’s leadership have been publicly documented.
Freeman further alleged that Iran’s activities form part of a broader global strategy involving support for militant organisations and violent campaigns in different parts of the world.
Addressing tensions in the Middle East, the ambassador said Israel’s actions against Iran were driven by security concerns, particularly over Tehran’s nuclear and missile development programmes.
“For 47 years, Iran has had a policy of ‘death to Israel, death to America,’” he said, accusing the country of sponsoring organisations aimed at attacking Israelis and Jews worldwide.
Freeman argued that when a country openly threatens another while pursuing nuclear capabilities, defensive action becomes necessary to prevent potential destruction.
Responding to criticisms about Israel’s own alleged nuclear capability, the ambassador maintained that the focus should remain on Iran’s actions rather than Israel’s military strength.
“The issue here is Iran,” he said, accusing the country of openly declaring its intention to destroy Israel.
Freeman also alleged that Iran has supported violent networks beyond the Middle East and claimed intelligence reports have linked Tehran to extremist activities in several regions.
He additionally criticised the Iranian government over its handling of internal protests, accusing the regime of using force against demonstrators.
On Israel’s recent military operations, Freeman said the country seeks to minimise civilian casualties by targeting only strategic military facilities.
“Israel does everything we can to limit innocent civilian casualties,” he said, contrasting this with what he described as Iranian attacks on civilians.
The ambassador added that Israel remains willing to strengthen security cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts.
He said both countries already maintain strong diplomatic ties, with collaboration in areas such as intelligence sharing, agriculture, healthcare, and technology.
Freeman also referenced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting that Israel remains open to partnerships with Nigeria aimed at tackling instability and improving security.
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