The Nigerian government has expressed huge concern over the flagrant decision by the Israeli military to violate Qatari sovereignty to conduct air strikes targeting senior Hamas leaders in the Gulf country amid ongoing negotiations to end the war in Gaza. 

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration expressed concern about the conduct of the Israeli government.

“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. 

“Nigeria underscores the primacy of respecting the sovereignty of all nations and adhering to international law, particularly in matters involving the use of force across borders,” the ministry said.

The statement came a day after the Israeli government targeted senior members of Hamas in a series of missile attacks in Qatar’s capital city of Doha on Tuesday, which led to widespread global condemnation, including from President Donald Trump, who gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a rare slap on the wrist.

Joining other countries, the Nigerian government also condemned the Israeli attack, noting that such actions are capable of fuelling further tensions in the region. The ministry also acknowledged Qatar’s role in mediating peace in the Middle East, while arguing that all parties should exercise maximum restraint.

“This development raises serious questions about regional stability and the prospects for ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

“Nigeria acknowledges Qatar’s longstanding role in fostering dialogue and mediation in the region. In this context, Nigeria urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalation, and recommit to peaceful engagement,” the statement added. 

The ministry extended Nigeria’s “heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the incident” and reiterated “our unwavering support for initiatives that promote de-escalation, dialogue, and durable peace”. 

It stated that the Nigerian government remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside members of the international community within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral forums to advance peace, security, and the rule of law in the Middle East and beyond.