On Thursday night, former President Donald Trump declared that the United States had launched a powerful strike against Islamic State forces in Nigeria, citing a surge in attacks on Christian communities. The announcement came on a Christmas-evening post on his social media platform, where Trump wrote, “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!”
U.S. Military Confirmation
U.S. Africa Command confirmed the strikes on X, stating that they were conducted “at the request of Nigerian authorities in Soboto State” and had killed “multiple ISIS terrorists.” A Defense Department official, who chose to remain anonymous, added that the U.S. had worked with Nigeria to carry out the operations and that they had been approved by the Nigerian government. The official also noted that the strikes demonstrated the United States’ capability to execute “numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing.”
Nigerian Diplomatic Response
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying the cooperation involved the 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 further added, “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.”
Context of Nigeria’s Security Situation
Nigeria, with a population of 220 million split almost evenly between Christians and Muslims, has long faced insecurity from multiple fronts. The Boko Haram extremist group, which seeks to impose a radical interpretation of Islamic law, has also targeted Muslims it deems not Muslim enough. In addition, religiously motivated attacks, clashes between farmers and herders, communal rivalries, secessionist movements, and ethnic clashes contribute to the country’s volatile security environment.
U.S. Policy Actions and Designations
The United States has taken several measures aimed at addressing the violence. The State Department announced a restriction on visas for Nigerians and their family members involved in mass killings and violence against Christians. In a separate move, the U.S. designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act, signaling heightened scrutiny of the nation’s religious freedom record.
Ongoing Tensions and Statements
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X, “The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end.” He added, “More to come…Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation” before signing off with “Merry Christmas!” Trump’s post also included the line, “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.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump announced a U.S. strike against ISIS in Nigeria, citing Christian persecution.
- U.S. Africa Command confirmed the strikes were authorized by Nigerian authorities.
- Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized sovereignty and lawful cooperation.
- The U.S. has tightened visa restrictions and labeled Nigeria a concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
The exchange of statements highlights the continued tension between the United States and Nigeria over the protection of religious minorities, while underscoring the U.S. commitment to countering terrorism in the region.
