The United States carried out airstrikes against ISIS militants in northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day, following an order from President Donald Trump, according to US and Nigerian officials.
The strikes targeted suspected ISIS fighters in Sokoto State and were launched from US naval assets in the region, the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said. US officials described the operation as a precision strike aimed at senior ISIS operatives. Initial assessments suggest several militants were killed, with no confirmed civilian casualties.
President Trump announced the operation on Truth Social, saying it was a response to recent attacks by ISIS-linked groups in northern Nigeria. He said the strikes followed violence against Christian communities and warned that further action could be taken if attacks continue.
AFRICOM said the operation was carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities. The command confirmed that a senior ISIS attack planner and other fighters linked to recent violence were among the targets. The US Department of War released footage showing missile launches from naval platforms.
Nigerian officials confirmed cooperation with the United States but provided limited details. Local media reported explosions late at night, with residents fleeing nearby areas.
ISIS-linked groups, including ISIS-West Africa Province, have carried out attacks in northern and western Nigeria for years, killing thousands and displacing many civilians. The Christmas Day strikes have drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising decisive action and critics raising concerns over legality, sovereignty, and the risk of escalation.
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