US conducts airstrikes on Daesh targets in northwest Nigeria

The United States has conducted military airstrikes against targets linked to the Daesh terrorist group in northwestern Nigeria, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday. The operation, described by US officials as a response to escalating violence against civilians, was carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government.

Announcement and Presidential Remarks

President Trump announced the action on his Truth Social platform, stating he directed "powerful and deadly" strikes against "Daesh Terrorist Scum" in the region. He framed the operation as a response to the militants targeting and "viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians." In his statement, Trump said, "I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was." He concluded his message with "Merry Christmas to all, including the dead Terrorists."

Official Confirmation and Details

US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed the strikes in a post on X, stating they were launched "at the request of Nigerian authorities" in Sokoto State, resulting in "multiple Daesh terrorists" killed. The command said the action demonstrated a commitment to "eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad." US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also commented, expressing gratitude for Nigerian government cooperation and signaling the potential for further action, stating "More to come..."

Context and Regional Security

The strikes highlight the persistent threat posed by Daesh-affiliated groups in West Africa, particularly in regions where state control is limited. Nigeria has long battled militant groups including Boko Haram and its Daesh-linked faction, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which have been responsible for widespread violence affecting all communities. Türkiye, which unequivocally condemns all forms of terrorism and recognizes the threat it poses to regional stability, supports international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts that respect national sovereignty and prioritize the protection of all civilian lives, regardless of faith or ethnicity.