“Don’t interrupt me” — Rufai Oseni clashes with Israeli ambassador on Gaza crisis

Arise TV anchor, Rufai Oseni, engaged in a tense live interview with Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, on Friday, directly challenging him over Israel’s military history and current policies.

The exchange centred on historical incidents such as the King David Hotel bombing, other past operations, and recent casualties in Gaza.

Oseni repeatedly interrupted the ambassador to stress his points, asserting that Israel has faced allegations of human rights violations in the West Bank and Gaza.

“Do not interrupt me, ambassador. Let me finish,” Oseni said, highlighting what he described as a pattern of historical and ongoing hypocrisy in Israel’s foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

Ambassador responds to llegations

In his response, Ambassador Freeman contested some of Oseni’s claims, saying, “Some of the statements you made at the beginning were outrageous and absolutely based on no facts.”

He defended Israel’s actions in recent conflicts, including the 12-day war against Iran’s nuclear programme, claiming that Iran continues to pursue nuclear development despite facing economic hardships and domestic crises.

Freeman also emphasised Iran’s continued investment in missile and uranium enrichment programmes and its sponsorship of regional militant groups.

Context and broader Implications

The interview underscores the growing global attention on Middle East tensions, particularly the US–Israel–Iran triangle, and the challenges journalists face in confronting diplomats over controversial policies.

Oseni’s approach reflects a broader push in Nigerian media to hold foreign representatives accountable for geopolitical actions that resonate with African audiences.