US Conducts Air Strikes Against Islamic State Militants in Nigeria on Christmas Day 2025
On Christmas Day 2025, US forces launched air strikes targeting Islamic State militants in Sokoto state, north-western Nigeria. These strikes mark the first time the Trump administration has conducted such operations against IS targets in Nigeria. The operation was carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities, with confirmation from Nigeria's foreign ministry.
President Donald Trump described the strikes as powerful and deadly. On his Truth Social platform, he stated there would be "hell to pay" for the slaughter of Christians and warned of many more dead terrorists if violence continues. He also extended a Merry Christmas greeting to all, including the dead.
The strikes followed earlier criticism from Trump towards Nigeria over perceived threats to Christian communities, which generated mixed reactions amid concerns about rising tensions in Africa. However, Nigeria's government and independent analysts reject framing the country's violence as religious persecution.
Additionally, The Guardian's report on the same day covered related issues within the Trump administration, including opposition from unions to the "Billionaire First" agenda and a legal challenge regarding deportation threats in the UK.
