President Donald Trump announced on December 25, 2023, that the United States has conducted airstrikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria. This decision follows a growing concern over the targeting of Christians by these groups in the region. Trump stated that these operations were carried out at his direction as commander in chief and emphasized the United States’ commitment to combating radical Islamic terrorism.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the strikes as “powerful and deadly,” highlighting that the terrorists had been responsible for the killing of innocent Christians at unprecedented levels. He asserted, “I have previously warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was.” Following the announcement, the U.S. Africa Command confirmed the strikes, stating they were conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities in Soboto State, resulting in the deaths of multiple ISIS operatives.
Details of the Military Action
The airstrikes were part of a broader strategy to address the escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria. In a statement, the U.S. Africa Command noted that these lethal actions demonstrate both the strength of the U.S. military and its dedication to eliminating terrorist threats. “Lethal strikes against ISIS demonstrate the strength of our military and our commitment to eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad,” the command stated.
The timing of these strikes coincides with earlier warnings from Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. In early November, Hegseth emphasized that the Nigerian government must protect Christians or face U.S. military action against those committing atrocities. He expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation of the Nigerian government in this operation.
Trump concluded his Christmas Day message by wishing a Merry Christmas to all, including the “dead terrorists,” and reaffirmed his resolve to continue military actions if the violence against Christians persists.
The specifics of the strike are still emerging, and further details will likely be released in the coming days. This operation marks a significant escalation in U.S. military engagement concerning Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.
