Envoy alleges Iran is backing the Islamic Movement of Nigeria and expanding its influence across the region, while the group denies the claims.
The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, , has accused of sponsoring terrorism in and across , alleging that Tehran is providing support to the (IMN).
Freeman made the claim during a media interaction where he warned that Iran is expanding its influence in the region through ideological and financial backing of certain Islamic movements.
According to the ambassador, the Islamic Movement of Nigeria is among the groups allegedly receiving support from Iran as part of a broader strategy to promote its interests and spread instability across parts of Africa.
He further stated that Iran’s activities in the region are not limited to Nigeria but extend to other West African countries, raising concerns about security and regional stability.
The Israeli envoy noted that statements by Iranian leaders in the past have shown sympathy and support for the Islamic movement, which he said points to a pattern of involvement in the region.
However, the has rejected the allegation, describing it as false and politically motivated. Representatives of the group insisted that the movement is a peaceful religious organization and not involved in any form of terrorism.
The group also accused the ambassador of making statements capable of creating unnecessary tension among religious communities in Nigeria.
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria, founded by , is a Shiite Islamic movement that has operated in Nigeria for decades. The Nigerian government banned the organization in 2019 following a series of clashes between its members and security forces.
The allegations by the Israeli envoy add another dimension to ongoing global geopolitical tensions involving Iran and its perceived influence in different regions of the world.
