The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has weighed in on the escalating conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States, urging American President Donald Trump to apologise for backing Israel in the crisis.
Speaking in a statement released in Osogbo on Wednesday, the Osun monarch criticised what he described as America’s partisan role in the conflict, warning that the killing of Iran’s 86-year-old Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, could have far-reaching consequences for global stability.
Oba Akanbi described the war as avoidable and unnecessary, arguing that the assassination of a sitting leader of a sovereign nation undermines international peace. According to him, global powers must demonstrate restraint rather than escalate tensions through military force.
While acknowledging his admiration for the United States, the traditional ruler said Washington’s involvement without actively pursuing a ceasefire weakens its standing as a neutral global power. He expressed concern that attacks reportedly affecting civilian areas reflected poorly on the principles of leadership and diplomacy.
The monarch maintained that Iran’s response shows it is unwilling to bow to external pressure, noting that the country has endured years of sanctions yet remained intact. He added that the current hostilities are already straining the global economy, citing disruptions to travel and aviation within the affected region.
Oba Akanbi further warned that unchecked military actions between powerful nations could destabilise international relations, stressing that peace-building, rather than warfare, defines true global leadership.
Calling for reflection, he said it was not too late for the United States to reconsider its approach and pursue diplomatic engagement. He urged world leaders to respect the sovereignty of nations and prioritise de-escalation to prevent further loss of lives.
The Oluwo’s remarks add to a growing list of international voices expressing concern over the legality and broader implications of the strikes, as tensions continue to mount in the Middle East.
