US President Donald Trump revealed Thursday that the Pentagon had executed what he described as “perfect strikes” against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, targeting militants the president called “terrorist scum” attacking Christian communities. The operation showcased American military precision and effectiveness.
The military action came after Trump characterized violence against Nigerian Christians in October and November as an “existential threat” approaching genocidal proportions. The president had made explicit threats of military intervention if attacks continued, warnings that culminated in strikes conducted on Christmas Day.
According to Trump’s statement, the Department of War executed multiple precision strikes against militants engaged in the vicious killing of primarily innocent Christians. He emphasized American military superiority and his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward radical Islamic terrorism.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the strikes as part of established security cooperation with the United States. The partnership includes intelligence sharing and strategic planning to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the region. Nigerian officials stressed that their government opposes terrorist violence against all religious communities, whether Christian or Muslim.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Nigeria for its cooperation and indicated that additional operations could follow. He referenced Trump’s previous clear warnings about protecting Christians. The Pentagon released video documentation showing weaponry being deployed from warships. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has participated in the security cooperation, he has also maintained that Nigeria’s constitution protects citizens of all faiths and that the country is committed to religious tolerance.