US President Donald Trump revealed Thursday that American forces had conducted strikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, targeting militants the president described as “terrorist scum” attacking Christian communities. The president made clear that ISIS had faced consequences for their actions on Christmas Day.
The military operation followed Trump’s warnings issued in October and November when he characterized violence against Nigerian Christians as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide.” The president had made explicit threats of military intervention if attacks continued, warnings that materialized into military action.
According to Trump’s statement, the Department of War executed “numerous perfect strikes” against militants engaged in the vicious killing of primarily innocent Christians. He emphasized American military superiority and his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward radical Islamic terrorism.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the strikes as part of established security cooperation with the United States. The partnership includes intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at combating militant groups. Nigerian officials stressed that terrorist violence against any religious community represents an affront to the country’s values.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Nigeria for its cooperation and indicated that additional operations could follow. He noted that Trump had been clear about his intentions and that ISIS “found out tonight — on Christmas.” The Pentagon released video documentation showing missiles launching from warships. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has participated in the security cooperation, he has also maintained that Nigeria’s constitution protects citizens of all faiths and that characterizations of religious intolerance do not reflect the country’s actual commitment.