Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria has questioned Iran’s development of long-range missiles capable of reaching Europe and Africa, suggesting the weapons indicate offensive intentions.
Michael Freeman raised concerns about Iran’s missile program during an Arise TV interview from 7:30, following recent Israeli military operations against Iranian facilities. The ambassador argued that Iran’s missile capabilities extend far beyond regional defense needs.
Recent Israeli strikes have targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, with military officials claiming significant damage to the country’s weapons development program. Israeli armed forces reported killing at least 14 Iranian nuclear scientists since Friday, describing them as “key factors in the development of Iranian nuclear weapons.”
The Israeli military characterized the scientists’ deaths as “a significant blow to the regime’s ability to acquire weapons of mass destruction,” according to official statements.
Ambassador Freeman outlined Israel’s strategic objectives during the interview. “Israel’s aims are very clear. We want to stop Iran’s nuclear program, but we also want to stop their ballistic missile program. Iran, before this operation, was aiming to build 300 ballistic missiles a month and was aiming to build a capacity of 20,000 missiles, which it intends to use, and these missiles had huge ranges,” Freeman claimed.
He emphasized that Iran’s missiles pose threats beyond the Middle East region. “They weren’t missiles that could only reach Israel. They are missiles that can reach Africa, large parts of Africa, that can reach large parts of Europe,” the ambassador explained.
He questioned Iran’s motivations for developing such extensive missile capabilities. “And you have to ask, why does a country like Iran need a huge missile that can reach all of these places in Europe and in Africa if they don’t intend to use it?” he concluded.
Israeli Ambassador Michael Freeman also provided an update on the performance of the country’s air defense capabilities, noting that recent days have seen no casualties as the system successfully intercepted all incoming missiles during that period.
The Ambassador emphasized the effectiveness of Israel’s air defense system, describing it as the world’s most advanced defensive technology. According to Freeman, the system has maintained an impressive 95% success rate in intercepting missiles throughout the duration of the ongoing conflict.
However, the Ambassador acknowledged the limitations of even the most sophisticated defense systems, explaining that achieving complete protection remains impossible. He noted that the remaining 5% of missiles that manage to penetrate the defense system have resulted in tragic civilian casualties.
Freeman highlighted a particularly devastating case involving a seven-year-old girl who had traveled to Israel seeking cancer treatment. The Ambassador reported that instead of receiving the medical care she desperately needed, the child became a victim of an Iranian missile that successfully bypassed the defense system.
