Trump Confirms Multiple U.S. Airstrikes on ISIS Positions in Nigeria

Former United States President Donald Trump has announced that American military forces carried out several lethal air operations against Islamic State (IS) militants operating in parts of northwestern Nigeria. According to Trump, the strikes were executed on Christmas Day and resulted in the elimination of numerous terrorist fighters.

Speaking publicly, Trump stated that the attacks were carried out after repeated warnings to extremist groups accused of targeting Christian communities in the region. He described the militants in harsh terms and stressed that further military responses would follow if violence against civilians continues.

Although no operational details such as locations or casualty figures were disclosed, Trump said the missions were conducted flawlessly by U.S. forces. He emphasized that the action was a direct response to continued killings allegedly carried out by Islamic State affiliates in Nigeria.

In a message shared on his Truth Social account, Trump reiterated that previous warnings had been issued to the militant group. He claimed those warnings were ignored, prompting decisive military action. He also praised the U.S. armed forces for what he described as their effectiveness and readiness.

Meanwhile, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed that a targeted strike took place following a formal request from Nigerian authorities. According to AFRICOM, the operation resulted in the deaths of several ISIS fighters, reinforcing cooperation between the two countries on counterterrorism efforts.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also commented on the operation, expressing appreciation for Nigeria’s collaboration and support. He highlighted the preparedness of the Department of Defense to respond swiftly to security threats in the region when called upon.

This development represents the first known U.S. military strike within Nigeria during Trump’s leadership period. It follows earlier remarks made by Trump in late October and November, when he criticized Nigeria’s handling of security challenges and described the situation facing Christians as severe and alarming.

Those earlier comments sparked mixed reactions. Some observers welcomed increased international attention to insecurity in Nigeria, while others warned that emphasizing religious divisions could worsen tensions in a country with a complex mix of ethnic and faith-based dynamics.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has experienced various forms of violence, including insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes. However, Nigerian government officials and several independent security analysts have consistently pushed back against portraying the conflict strictly as religious persecution. They argue that the violence is driven by multiple factors, including criminal activity, economic pressures, and local power struggles.

The Nigerian government has also rejected the use of the term “genocide” to describe the situation, maintaining that security forces are addressing threats affecting citizens of all backgrounds, regardless of religious affiliation.