US Airstrikes Target Islamic State Terrorists in Nigeria

In a decisive move on Christmas Day, the United States military carried out airstrikes against suspected positions of the Islamic State (IS) in Nigeria. This operation, justified by President Donald Trump, aimed to protect Christians from ongoing violence perpetrated by the Islamist group. Trump made his stance clear on his platform, Truth Social, saying, "I previously warned these terrorists that they would pay a heavy price if they did not stop slaughtering Christians, and tonight it happened."

The military strikes took place primarily in the northwest region of Nigeria, where IS has been accused of perpetuating violence against religious communities. Trump's provocative message continued with further threats: "Merry Christmas to all, including the dead terrorists, of whom there will be many more if they continue to slaughter Christians." According to the US Department of Defense, the strikes were executed at the behest of Nigerian authorities, as part of a broader security cooperation agreement between the two nations. While the exact number of fatalities remains undisclosed, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth denounced the k!llings of innocent Christians and lauded the support of the Nigerian government in this ongoing struggle against terrorism.