Islamic Group Demands Nigeria Sever Diplomatic Ties with Israel and Criticize US
An Islamic organization, Al-Harakatul Islamiyyah, has issued a strong call to the Nigerian federal government, urging it to immediately cut diplomatic relations with Israel and publicly criticize the United States amid escalating tensions involving Iran. The group, led by Amir AbdulRazzaq AbdulWahab Al-Amin Aladodo, made these demands during its Quds Day commemoration, an annual event dedicated to expressing solidarity with Palestinians and highlighting regional developments.
Warning Against Neutrality in Middle East Conflict
In a statement signed by its leader, the group warned that maintaining a neutral stance in the ongoing Middle East conflict could be interpreted as tacit support for what it describes as aggression by Israel and the United States. The statement emphasized that Nigeria must move beyond symbolic diplomacy and adopt a clear, decisive position on the crisis. "It amounts to tokenism to merely call for cessation of hostilities as the aggressors are well known," the statement read, accusing both Israel and the US of contributing to regional instability.
Justification Based on Gaza and Geopolitical Tensions
Al-Harakatul Islamiyyah justified its call by pointing to the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and broader geopolitical tensions across the Middle East. The group argued that continued diplomatic engagement with Israel undermines global justice efforts, citing alleged human rights violations and restrictions around the Al-Aqsa Mosque. It also linked the evolving situation involving Iran to the wider Palestinian struggle, describing Tehran's role as significant in resistance efforts against Israel.
Call for Unity Among Muslim Nations
The organization further urged Muslim-majority countries, particularly those within the Gulf Cooperation Council, to reassess their alliances and remove foreign military bases from their territories. It emphasized the need for unity within the Islamic world, warning that internal divisions weaken collective responses to the Palestinian issue. "The Muslim Ummah must rise above sectarian divides and use all available means to support the Palestinian cause," the statement said.
Criticism of Normalization Agreements
In addition, the group criticized ongoing diplomatic normalization efforts between some Arab nations and Israel, specifically targeting the Abraham Accords. It described these agreements as harmful to Palestinian interests and urged countries like the United Arab Emirates to avoid restoring diplomatic engagement with Israel during the current crisis. Quds Day, observed globally, focuses on opposing Israeli control over Jerusalem and supporting Palestinian rights.
Background on Regional Tensions
This call comes amid reports of renewed airstrikes in the region, with Israel reportedly launching attacks against Iran. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz previously announced a "pre-emptive attack" against Iran and declared a special state of emergency across Israel. These developments highlight the volatile nature of the Middle East conflict, prompting groups like Al-Harakatul Islamiyyah to advocate for stronger stances from nations like Nigeria.
