US Conducts Airstrikes Against IS Targets in Nigeria with Support from Trump Allies and GOP Lawmakers
On December 25, 2025, the United States launched cruise missile strikes against Islamic State (IS) targets in Nigeria, including the town of Offa in Kwara state, in coordination with the Nigerian government. The operation was presented as a direct response to ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria perpetrated by IS affiliates, specifically ISWAP, amid broader religious conflict.
Trump-supporting figures such as Laura Loomer and Randy Fine praised the strikes, characterizing the military action as a Christmas present and a necessary response to the killings of Christians. Other Republican lawmakers, including Ted Budd, Bill Huizenga, and Tom Cotton, also lauded the strikes, emphasizing their role in protecting Christians and religious freedom. Notably, Riley Moore had previously introduced legislation related to Nigeria.
The strikes come against the backdrop of persistent religious violence in Nigeria, where according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCRI), government efforts to protect Christians have been insufficient. Since 2009, over 50,000 Christians have reportedly been killed, more than 18,000 churches destroyed, and approximately 2,000 Christian schools damaged or demolished.
US officials described the operation as coordinated with Nigerian authorities, with ongoing counterterrorism efforts expected to continue and further strikes possible in northern Nigeria.
These Nigeria airstrikes followed recent US airstrikes in Syria targeting IS networks. The Syria operations were launched less than a week after an attack that killed two US service members and a civilian. US Central Command stated that these strikes are critical to preventing IS-inspired attacks globally.
