President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he had ordered strikes against ISIS militants in northwest Nigeria, describing them as “terrorist scum” responsible for attacks on Christian populations. The operation demonstrated the administration’s willingness to take military action against terrorist groups.
The strikes followed Trump’s warnings issued in October and November characterizing violence against Nigerian Christians as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide.” The president had explicitly threatened military intervention if attacks persisted, warnings that have now been realized through military action conducted on Christmas Day.
Trump detailed that the Department of War executed “numerous perfect strikes” against militants who had been systematically killing innocent Christians. He emphasized that only the United States possesses such military capabilities and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preventing radical Islamic terrorism from flourishing.
The Nigerian Foreign Ministry confirmed the military action as part of ongoing security cooperation between the two nations. This collaboration involves intelligence sharing and strategic coordination to combat terrorism and violent extremism. Nigerian officials made clear that their government opposes terrorist violence against all religious communities.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed appreciation for Nigerian cooperation in enabling the strikes. He suggested that more operations might follow, noting that ISIS had learned a lesson on Christmas. The Pentagon released video footage showing missiles launching from warships. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has cooperated with the security operation, he has also emphasized that Nigeria’s constitution protects citizens of all faiths and that the country is committed to working with international partners while ensuring religious freedom.
