President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States carried out airstrikes against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria, positioning the military action as a direct response to what he described as systematic attacks on Christian communities.
Trump Signals More Strikes To Come
Writing on Truth Social, Trump left little doubt about his willingness to continue operations. "Tonight, at my direction as commander in chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorists S**m in northwest Nigeria," Trump wrote, adding that the militants had been "viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians."
His post carried an unmistakable warning: "May God Bless our Military, and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, including the dead Terrorists, of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues."
Pentagon Backs Expanded Operations
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the administration's stance, making clear that violence against Christians would trigger further U.S. action. "The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end," Hegseth wrote on X.
He said the Department of War was "ready" to act swiftly and thanked the Nigerian government for its cooperation during the operation.
Nigeria Back On Religious Freedom Watchlist
The strikes follow Trump's recent decision to return Nigeria to the State Department's "Countries of Particular Concern" list, which identifies nations accused of severe violations of religious freedom. Trump initially designated Nigeria during his first term, but former President Joe Biden reversed that classification in 2021.
Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, faces persistent security challenges from extremist groups, criminal gangs, and banditry that affect both Christian and Muslim communities. The country is home to hundreds of ethnic groups practicing Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions.
Broader Diplomatic Realignment Underway
The military action unfolds against a backdrop of shifting U.S. engagement in West Africa. The United States withdrew about 1,000 troops from neighboring Niger last year, reducing its regional military presence significantly.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has ordered the abrupt return of nearly 30 career ambassadors from U.S. embassies worldwide, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing officials familiar with the decision. The diplomatic recall represents a broader effort to reshape American diplomatic operations under the new administration.