President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the United States had carried out a “powerful and deadly” strike against Islamic State forces in Northwest Nigeria.
The announcement came after weeks of criticism that the Nigerian government had failed to curb the persecution of Christians in the country.
Trump posted a Christmas-evening message on his social-media platform, stating: “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!”
The U.S. Africa Command later confirmed on X that the strikes were conducted “at the request of Nigerian authorities in Soboto State” and that “multiple ISIS terrorists” were killed.
U.S. and Nigerian Cooperation
A Defense Department official, who requested anonymity, explained that the United States worked closely with Nigeria to carry out the operation and that it had been approved by the Nigerian government.
The official noted that the strikes were part of a broader intelligence-sharing and strategic coordination effort.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying the cooperation “included exchange of intelligence and strategic coordination in ways ‘consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty and shared commitments to regional and global security.'”
The ministry also emphasized that “Terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.”
Nigeria’s Response
In response to Trump’s accusations, the Nigerian government highlighted that people of many faiths, not just Christians, have suffered attacks from extremist groups.
The government reiterated that it was aware of the complex security environment and was taking steps to protect all citizens.
Trump, meanwhile, had ordered the Pentagon last month to begin planning for potential military action in Nigeria to curb Christian persecution.
The State Department announced it would restrict visas for Nigerians and their family members involved in mass killings and violence against Christians.
U.S. Designation and Visa Restrictions
The United States recently designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act.
This designation reflects ongoing concerns about religious persecution in the country.
Trump’s social-media post also highlighted that the U.S. had “executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing” and added that “our Country will not allow Radical Islamic Terrorism to prosper.”
The U.S. Africa Command’s X post emphasized that the lethal strikes “demonstrate the strength of our military and our commitment to eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad.”
Context of Conflict
Nigeria’s population of 220 million is split almost equally between Christians and Muslims.
The country has long faced insecurity from various fronts, including the Boko Haram extremist group, which seeks to establish a radical interpretation of Islamic law and has also targeted Muslims it deems not Muslim enough.
Attacks in Nigeria often have varying motives: religiously motivated ones targeting both Christians and Muslims, clashes between farmers and herders over dwindling resources, communal rivalries, secessionist groups and ethnic clashes.
U.S. Military Footprint in Africa
The U.S. security footprint has diminished in Africa, with many military partnerships scaled down or canceled.
U.S. forces would likely need to be drawn from other parts of the world for any larger-scale intervention in Nigeria.
Despite this, Trump has continued to pressure the Nigerian government as the country faced a series of attacks on schools and churches.
Residents and experts say these attacks target both Christians and Muslims.
Hegseth’s Statement
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X Thursday night: “The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end.”
He added that U.S. military forces are “always ready, so ISIS found out tonight – on Christmas” and wrote, “More to come…Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation.” He signed off with a holiday greeting: “Merry Christmas!”
Key Takeaways
- Trump announced a U.S. strike against ISIS in Northwest Nigeria, claiming it targeted primarily Christian victims.
- The operation was carried out with Nigerian approval and involved intelligence sharing.
- The U.S. has imposed visa restrictions and designated Nigeria a country of particular concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
The announcement underscores the continuing tension between U.S. foreign policy objectives and Nigeria’s complex security landscape, as both sides grapple with the rising threat of extremist violence.
