Trump Orders Christmas Day Military Strikes Against ISIS in Nigeria

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U.S. Military Strikes Target ISIS in Nigeria

President Donald Trump announced that the United States launched a military strike against Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in northwest Nigeria on Christmas evening. The attack was aimed at groups accused of targeting and killing Christians in the region. Trump took to social media platform Truth Social to share the news, stating that the strikes were "powerful and deadly."

"The United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!" he wrote.

Trump emphasized the severity of the attacks but did not provide specific details about the missile strikes or the number of casualties. He warned that if the violence against Christians continued, more attacks would follow.

"I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was," he said. "The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing."

Context Behind the Strikes

The missile strikes occurred after Trump and members of Congress raised concerns about the killings of Christians in Nigeria. Earlier this month, the State Department restricted visas for Nigerians involved in ethnic and religious violence. This move was part of broader efforts to address the growing threat posed by extremist groups in the region.

Trump, who was vacationing at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, reiterated his stance on the issue, warning that further action would be taken if the violence persisted.

"Under my leadership, our Country will not allow Radical Islamic Terrorism to prosper. 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," he wrote.

Support from the Pentagon

War Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for its support and cooperation. He also reaffirmed the administration's commitment to ending the violence against Christians in Nigeria.

"The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end," he wrote on X. "The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight - on Christmas."

Hegseth added, "More to come…," indicating that further actions may be taken if the situation does not improve.

Previous Statements and Actions

In November, Trump had called on Hegseth to "prepare for possible action" in Nigeria. He also warned that the U.S. would enter the country "guns-a-blazing" to protect the Christian population.

According to human rights organization Intersociety, more than 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria this year. The violence has sparked international concern, with calls for stronger measures to protect religious minorities.

Designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern

Trump designated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" under the International Religious Freedom Act. This designation means that the president found the nation engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing, (and) egregious violations of religious freedom."

The Washington Examiner reached out to the White House, State Department, and War Departments for comment, but no immediate response was received.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Outlook

As the situation in Nigeria continues to evolve, the U.S. remains vigilant in its efforts to combat extremist groups and protect vulnerable communities. The recent strikes highlight the administration's determination to take decisive action when necessary.

With the holiday season upon us, the focus remains on ensuring peace and safety for all, especially those affected by religious persecution. The coming weeks will likely bring more updates on the situation in Nigeria and the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy.