Israel–Iran Standoff Fuels International Security Worries
President of the Nigeria Political Scientists Association, Prof. Hassan Saliu, has warned that rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, are increasing global security concerns.
Saliu said the region has become one of the most volatile in the world due to growing military activities and the deployment of sophisticated weapons by powerful countries.
He made the remarks at a Foreign Policy Lecture Series themed “Israel, Africa and Global Geopolitics Shifts,” organised by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos.
According to him, although the world has not experienced a third world war, continued conflicts and hostilities in the Middle East show that the global system is becoming increasingly fragile.
Saliu noted that both Israel and Iran possess strong military capabilities and have shown readiness to use them, making their rivalry a serious concern for global peace and stability.
He explained that tensions in the region are also influenced by global powers, adding that Israel enjoys strong support from major Western countries.
The professor said Africa also plays a role in the geopolitical dynamics, noting that many African countries maintain diplomatic, security and technological cooperation with Israel.
He added that Africa’s position on the Israel–Palestine issue has often shown solidarity with Palestine, although some countries continue to maintain strategic relations with Israel.
Saliu stressed that the rivalry between Israel and Iran is not just a regional issue but one that could affect global alliances and international security.
He therefore called for greater diplomatic dialogue and peaceful solutions to prevent the tensions in the Middle East from escalating further.