US Launches Airstrikes on ISIS Targets in Northwest Nigeria, Says President Trump. 

Washington:

US President Donald J. Trump announced that American forces had carried out airstrikes against ISIS-linked militants operating in northwest Nigeria, citing attacks on civilian populations, particularly Christian communities.

In a statement, President Trump said the operation was conducted under his authority as Commander in Chief and described it as a decisive military action aimed at degrading the group’s ability to carry out further violence. He alleged that the militants had been responsible for large-scale killings in the region and warned that continued attacks would draw further US retaliation.

According to the statement, the strikes were executed by the US Department of Defense and involved multiple, coordinated operations. The president claimed the mission was successful and emphasized that the United States would not allow extremist organizations to expand or operate with impunity.

“Under my leadership, our country will not allow radical Islamic terrorism to prosper,” Trump said, while praising the US military for what he described as precision and effectiveness.

US officials did not immediately release further operational details, including casualty figures or the extent of damage on the ground. Nigerian authorities have also yet to comment publicly on the announcement.

The United States has previously expressed concern over the activities of extremist groups in parts of West Africa, including factions linked to ISIS and Boko Haram, which have carried out attacks on civilians, security forces and religious communities.

President Trump concluded his statement by thanking US military personnel for their service and extending holiday greetings. The announcement comes amid heightened international focus on counterterrorism efforts and regional stability in West Africa.