Trump Says US Struck Islamic State Targets In Nigeria After Attacks

Former U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States carried out targeted strikes against Islamic State-linked militants in Nigeria following deadly attacks on Christian communities in the region. The statement has drawn international attention as concerns grow over extremist violence in West Africa.

Speaking during a public appearance, Trump claimed the military action was ordered in response to reports that Islamic State-affiliated groups had specifically targeted Christians in parts of Nigeria. He described the strikes as “decisive and necessary,” saying they were meant to send a strong message against religiously motivated violence and terrorism.

U.S. defense officials have not yet released full operational details, but sources familiar with the matter indicated that the strikes were aimed at known militant hideouts linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The group has been active in Nigeria and neighboring countries, frequently clashing with government forces and attacking civilian populations.

Nigeria has struggled for years with insurgent violence, particularly in its northeastern regions. While Boko Haram remains the most widely known extremist organization, ISWAP has expanded its influence, often carrying out coordinated assaults on villages, churches, and security installations. Human rights groups report that religious minorities, including Christians, have increasingly been targeted.

Trump framed the operation as part of a broader commitment to protecting persecuted communities and combating global terrorism. He criticized what he described as weak international responses to extremist violence, arguing that swift military action was sometimes necessary to prevent further bloodshed.

Nigerian authorities acknowledged reports of U.S. involvement but said investigations were ongoing. A spokesperson for Nigeria’s military stated that cooperation with international partners remains critical in fighting terrorism, while emphasizing that national forces continue to lead operations on the ground.

The strikes come amid renewed debate over the U.S. role in counterterrorism operations abroad. Supporters argue that targeted military action helps dismantle terror networks before they expand further. Critics, however, caution that airstrikes alone cannot address the deeper political, economic, and social issues fueling extremism in the region.

Religious leaders in Nigeria reacted with mixed emotions. Some welcomed international action against extremist groups, while others urged global powers to focus more on humanitarian aid, rebuilding efforts, and long-term peace initiatives. Community leaders stressed the need for protecting civilians caught in conflict zones.

International observers say the situation highlights the fragile security environment across West Africa, where extremist groups continue to exploit weak governance and regional instability. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that violence in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions could worsen without sustained global engagement.

As more information emerges, analysts expect further scrutiny of the scope and impact of the reported strikes. For now, Trump’s announcement has once again placed Nigeria’s security crisis—and the broader fight against Islamic State—back into the global spotlight.​