U.S. President Donald J. Trump has claimed that the United States military carried out what he described as a “powerful and deadly” strike against ISIS elements operating in northwest Nigeria, accusing the group of targeting and killing Christians.
In a statement released on Christmas Day, Trump said the operation was carried out on his directive as Commander in Chief, alleging that the militant group had intensified attacks on civilians, particularly Christians, at levels “not seen for many years.” He asserted that the strikes were executed by the U.S. Department of Defense and described them as “numerous perfect strikes.”
Trump said he had previously warned the militants to halt attacks on Christians, adding that the military action was a direct response to continued violence. He emphasized that under his leadership, the United States would not allow what he termed “radical Islamic terrorism” to thrive.
“Tonight, there was hell to pay,” Trump said, praising the U.S. military and extending Christmas greetings while reiterating his warning that further attacks would be met with additional force.
As of the time of filing this report, U.S. defense authorities and Nigerian security agencies have not independently confirmed the alleged operation or provided details on the location, targets, or casualties. There has also been no official response from the Nigerian government regarding the claim.
Security analysts note that militant activity in parts of northern Nigeria has remained a concern for years, involving various extremist groups, including ISIS-affiliated factions. However, they caution that claims of foreign military operations typically require confirmation from multiple official sources.
The statement has sparked renewed debate about international counterterrorism operations in West Africa and the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria’s northern regions.
