The United States military carried out airstrikes targeting Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, on Christmas Day. US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation via Truth Social, stating it was “powerful and deadly” against militants “viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians”.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the strikes were joint with Nigerian military, part of “structured security cooperation” with the US. “Details regarding scope and casualties remain scanty, underscoring the sensitive nature of counterterrorism engagements,” spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said.
The operation aims to degrade ISWAP’s expanding footprint beyond Lake Chad. US Africa Command said multiple militants were killed. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tweeted “More to come… grateful for Nigerian cooperation”. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu warned terrorist groups Israel would support US efforts.
Casualty figures and damage extent aren’t disclosed. Intelligence suggests more air operations may follow.
