US Military Strikes in Nigeria and Syria Continue Efforts to Defeat Islamic State
Recent US strikes in Nigeria and Syria represent a continuation of longstanding American policy aimed at defeating the Islamic State (IS). A cruise missile attack targeted terrorist camps in northwestern Nigeria three days prior to December 28, 2025. These operations align with the broader US effort to combat IS across Iraq, Syria, and Nigeria alongside allies.
Republican Representative Mike Turner emphasized that these strikes are not indicative of a new second-term approach but rather an extension of the ongoing conflict against IS. President Trump framed the Nigeria strike as a Christmas present for IS militants, simultaneously criticizing the ongoing persecution of Christians in the region.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted that Trump has declared the killing of innocent Christians must end, stating that IS will remain a focus with further strikes expected. Nigerian authorities in Abuja have discussed joint and ongoing operations with the US, which has also warned of additional military actions in Nigeria.
Turner further linked the US's stance on these strikes to its position on Ukraine, arguing that America cannot be pro-Russia amid Vladimir Putin's actions. Overall, these campaigns are situated within a comprehensive policy to defeat Islamic State threats in multiple regions, maintaining US commitment through military cooperation with international partners.
