Nigeria Condemns Israeli Airstrike on Hamas Leaders in Qatar, Warns of Regional Instability
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned an Israeli airstrike conducted on September 9, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, which reportedly targeted senior Hamas leaders. This unprecedented strike outside usual conflict zones has elicited deep concern from Nigeria, highlighting the potential ramifications for Middle Eastern and broader regional stability.
In a formal statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria underscored the imperative of respecting national sovereignty and the strict adherence to international law regarding the use of force across borders. “The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses deep concern over reports of an Israeli airstrike on 9 September 2025 in Doha, Qatar, reportedly targeting senior members of the Hamas leadership,” the statement read. It continues, “This development raises serious questions about regional stability and the prospects for ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict”.
Nigeria also commended Qatar for its long-standing role as a mediator in peace negotiations within the region, urging all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. The government called for a recommitment to peaceful dialogue as the only viable path forward. “Nigeria urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalation and recommit to peaceful engagement,” the statement added.
Expressing sympathy, Nigeria extended condolences to the victims and their families affected by the strike and reaffirmed its unwavering support for international initiatives dedicated to de-escalation and durable peace. Furthermore, the Nigerian government stressed its ongoing commitment to work with the United Nations and other global organizations to promote peace and security in the Middle East. “The Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside members of the international community… to advance peace, security, and the rule of law in the Middle East and beyond,” the statement concluded.
The Israeli airstrike targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar represents a marked escalation with far-reaching implications. Qatar, often seen as a diplomatic hub, has hosted talks between Palestinian factions and other regional actors. Attacking targets in Qatar risks undermining these delicate negotiations and could destabilize a relatively stable regional environment.
Experts have warned that such cross-border strikes carry the risk of provoking broader conflicts, impacting not only the Middle East but also engaging interested parties globally. Nigeria’s condemnation reflects concerns shared by other nations and regional bodies, such as the African Union and South Africa, which have similarly called for restraint.
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue. Nigeria’s call for restraint highlights the importance of preventing further destabilization and emphasizes the need for dialogue and adherence to international norms to avert escalation that could engulf the region.
