Last One Year Has Been Tough For Israel – Ambassador

Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has said the last one year has been tough for his country, having faced attacks and abductions of its citizens by Hamas.

Speaking in Abuja during the celebration of the 76th Independence Day of Israel on Monday night, Freeman, who has been involved in various diplomatic activities, including addressing the security situation in the region and discussing bilateral issues with Nigerian officials, said what is happening in the Middle East is pathetic as Hamas has vowed to impregnate girls who are among the people they abducted last year.

“That’s why we are still in Gaza. We want to free the hostages and ensure that Hamas doesn’t launch that kind of attack on Israel again,” Freeman said.

The envoy who spoke on their efforts at supporting Nigerians that are into innovation, emphasised the need for economic growth and development in the region.

Freeman expressed his country’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Nigeria, adding that the last one year had been difficult for his country.

“It is a difficult year for Israel and Israelis. A total of 250 people have been taken hostage by Hamas since last year. 125 still remain in Hamas’ captivity.

“They are being held for almost eight months. That’s why we are still in Gaza to ensure that Hamas does not carry out such an attack again,” Freeman added.

Speaking on their interventions in Nigeria, Freeman said if Nigeria can tap into the Israeli style of agriculture, cybersecurity and other technology, the country will move forward.