The State of Israel Ambassador to Nigeria, Micheal Freeman says his government will ensure the ‘total’ destruction of militant Hamas.
The Israeli diplomat stated this on Monday while speaking on Channels Television programme, Sunshine Daily.
Freeman spoke amidst the clash between Hamas and Israeli forces, which has led to many death on both sides since the violence started on Friday.
Over 1100 people have been killed on both sides as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to crush the attacks.
The Palestinian Liberation Organisation, PLO, blamed the constant attack on Palestinians by Israeli security forces, particularly the desecration of the Al aqsa mosque for the attack by Hamas.
The international community has demanded the cessation of hostilities from both sides, calling on the PLO government and Israeli government to negotiate a peaceful resolution.
On its part, the Nigerian government on Saturday called on both sides to negotiate, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In the statement, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said the escalation between both countries would result in an unending cycle of pain and suffering for the civilian population.
He urged the two sides to pursue peace in the interest of their people.
The statement said, “The Federal Government of Nigeria, therefore, calls on both sides to exercise restraint, prioritise the safety of civilians and give room for humanitarian considerations. We are therefore calling for a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue,” the statement read.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria is deeply concerned about the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in the early hours of Saturday and calls for de-escalation and ceasefire.
“The cycle of violence and retaliation that the current escalation has assumed only serves to perpetuate an unending cycle of pain and suffering for the civilian population that bears the brunt of every conflict.”
Meanwhile, the United States president, Joe Biden has promised to support Israel to be able to “defend” itself, while Iran, Hamas biggest backer has congratulated Hamas for its victory in the war.
The US, the major ally of the state of Israel has also sent an assault group, including an aircraft carrier to the Middle East, even as international diplomatic analysts warn of further escalation.
