Nigeria calls for de-escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas

Nigeria has called for de-escalation and ceasefire in the outbreak of hostilities between the Palestinian militant group, Hamas and Israel, which have claimed over 400 lives.

The Israel robust intelligence unit was caught unawares after Hamas launched a surprise and unprecedented attack on Israel on Saturday morning, a multi-front ambush during a major Jewish holiday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded, saying the country “was at war” with Hamas and that reservists would be called up to boost the armed forces.

“The enemy will pay a price it has never known before,” he said.

Israeli media, citing rescue service officials, said at least 250 people were killed and 1,500 wounded, making it the deadliest attack in Israel in decades.

At least, 232 people in the Gaza Strip have been killed and at least 1,700 wounded in Israeli strikes, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in a signed statement emailed to Persecondnews, called on both sides to “exercise restraint, prioritise the safety of civilians and give room for humanitarian considerations.”

Tuggar described the conflict as unending cycle of pain and suffering for the civilian population that bears the brunt of every conflict.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria is deeply concerned about the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in the early hours of Saturday, October 7 2023, and calls for de-escalation and ceasefire.”

In the wake of the surprise attack, world leaders stand in solidarity with Israel — Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan — and condemned the attacks.

Reacting to the development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India took to his official X account, disclosing that “we stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.”

He wrote: “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families.”

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, noted that “Israel has an absolute right to defend itself” and also urged British nationals in the troubled country to obey travel advisory.

He said: “I am shocked by this morning’s attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli citizens. Israel has an absolute right to defend itself.

“We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice.”

On his part, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, urged both parties to explore peaceful path and “refrain from aggressive acts.”