Popular Nigerian cleric and Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has stirred fresh debate over the unfolding crisis in the Middle East after issuing a stern warning about Iran’s political future and its potential implications for Israel and the United States.

In a recent sermon shared on social media, the outspoken prophet said he would be making a detailed statement “in the morning” regarding what he described as the “Iranian matter,” but went on to caution that any new leadership emerging in Tehran could adopt a more hardline stance than its predecessor.

“I will say something in the morning about this Iranian matter. Another (Iran’s) leader they are going to pick will not cooperate with America and would be even deadlier than the former one,” Primate Ayodele declared during the sermon.

He further alleged that there are undisclosed plans by certain actors to launch an unexpected attack on Israel and possibly extend hostilities to the United States.

“And these people dispersing plan to attack Israel unexpectedly and America when I don’t know,” he added, without providing specific details.

Ayodele’s remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following recent developments involving Iran’s leadership and its longstanding adversarial relationship with both Israel and the United States.

Iran has for decades maintained a hostile posture toward Israel, refusing to recognise the Jewish state and supporting armed groups opposed to Israeli policies in the region. Relations between Tehran and Washington have also been strained since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with disputes ranging from nuclear ambitions and sanctions to military engagements through proxy forces.

The situation has been further complicated by recent reports of military escalations and diplomatic standoffs, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Analysts have warned that any abrupt leadership transition in Iran could significantly alter the strategic calculations of the country, particularly if a more hardline figure assumes power.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from Iranian authorities, Israeli officials, or the United States government regarding the cleric’s statements. (Nigerian Tribune)

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