US launches airstrikes against ISIS in Nigeria following attacks on Christians
US President Donald Trump announced on Friday night that the United States has conducted "numerous strikes" against Islamic State (ISIS) targets in northwestern Nigeria.
The President stated on Truth Social that these groups have brutally targeted innocent Christians for years. "I warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, they would pay a heavy price," Trump explained.
Nigeria confirms military cooperation
Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed they are cooperating with US forces. The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
This military action follows Trump’s December decision to impose a partial entry ban on Nigerian citizens. In 2025, Nigeria suffered multiple religious-based massacres, including an attack in June that claimed over 100 lives in the village of Yelvat.
Mass abduction crisis ends in Niger State
In a separate development, the final 130 students from St. Mary’s Catholic boarding school were released on December 21. They were part of a group of 303 children kidnapped by militants in late November.
Sunday Dare, spokesperson for the Nigerian President, confirmed that no children remain in captivity. While 50 students escaped early on, the remaining captives were released in stages throughout December.
Retaliatory strikes in Syria
The US military also intensified its campaign in Syria. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that over 70 ISIS targets were hit on December 20, focusing on weapons depots and infrastructure.
These strikes were a direct response to a December 13 ambush in Palmyra. That attack resulted in the deaths of two US service members, a civilian translator, and two Syrian personnel.
President Trump noted that Washington remains in contact with Damascus regarding these operations. He signaled that Syrian authorities would not interfere with the US military response.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
