The United States has launched airstrikes targeting Islamic State fighters in northwest Nigeria, US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday, as part of a military response to ongoing extremist violence in the region.
In a statement shared on his Truth social media platform, Trump said the strikes, described as “powerful and deadly,” were directed at Islamic State militants “who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians” at levels not seen in many years.
He added that the operation was carried out under his authority as Commander in Chief and emphasised the US’s commitment to countering radical terrorism.
The US Africa Command said the strikes were conducted “in coordination with Nigerian authorities” in Sokoto State and that multiple militants were killed.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on social media that “more to come” as part of ongoing efforts against extremist groups, and expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the Nigerian government.
Trump and other US officials have in recent months criticised the surge in violence, framing the strikes as a response to attacks on civilians.
The Nigerian government had earlier pushed back against characterisations that violence in the country was solely religious in motivation and emphasised the complexity of the security situation, with militants targeting diverse communities.
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