Trump Orders Christmas Strikes: US Military Hits ISIS Targeting Christians

President Donald Trump disclosed Thursday that American forces had conducted strikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, focusing on militants the president described as “terrorist scum” attacking Christian communities. The deliberate timing on Christmas Day underscored the religious dimensions of the conflict.
The strikes came after Trump issued warnings in October and November when he characterized the situation as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide” against Nigerian Christians. The president had made clear that continued violence would provoke American military intervention, a commitment now realized through military action.
Trump’s announcement detailed that the Department of War executed precision strikes against militants engaged in the vicious killing of primarily innocent Christians. He emphasized American military superiority and his administration’s commitment to preventing radical Islamic terrorism from flourishing. The president praised the operation’s execution and effectiveness.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the military action as part of established security cooperation with the United States. The partnership includes intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at combating militant groups. Nigerian officials stressed that terrorist violence against any religious community represents an affront to the country’s values.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Nigeria for its cooperation and indicated that additional operations could follow. He referenced Trump’s previous warnings about protecting Christians and noted that ISIS had learned this lesson on Christmas. The Pentagon released video footage showing projectiles launching from warships. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has participated in the security cooperation, he has also emphasized that Nigeria’s constitution protects citizens of all faiths and that the country maintains its commitment to religious tolerance despite facing ongoing security challenges.