President Donald Trump announced Thursday that American forces had conducted strikes against ISIS militants in northwest Nigeria, targeting what he described as “terrorist scum” attacking Christian populations. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that ISIS terrorists had learned a painful lesson on Christmas.
The strikes followed Trump’s warnings from October and November when he characterized the situation as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide” against Nigerian Christians. The president had explicitly threatened military intervention if violence persisted, setting clear expectations that have now been realized through military action.
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 address terrorism and violent extremism. Nigerian officials made clear that terrorist violence against any religious community represents an affront to the country’s values.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed appreciation for Nigerian cooperation in enabling the strikes. He suggested that more operations might follow, stating the Department of War remains “always ready.” The Pentagon released video footage showing projectiles 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 maintains its commitment to religious freedom.