Pentagon Video Shows Christmas Day Strikes on ISIS in Nigerian Territory

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that American forces had conducted strikes against ISIS militants in northwest Nigeria, targeting what he called “terrorist scum” attacking Christian communities. The Pentagon released compelling video evidence of the Christmas Day military operation.
The strikes came after Trump characterized violence against Nigerian Christians in October and November as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide.” The president had made explicit threats of military intervention if attacks persisted, warnings that have now been realized through concrete military action.
Trump’s statement emphasized that the Department of War executed precision strikes against militants who had been viciously killing innocent Christians. He highlighted that only the United States possesses such military capabilities and reaffirmed his administration’s stance against radical Islamic terrorism.
The Nigerian Foreign Ministry confirmed the operation as part of ongoing security cooperation between the two countries. This partnership involves intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at combating militant groups. Nigerian officials made clear that terrorist violence against any religious community represents an affront to the country’s values.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed gratitude to Nigeria for enabling the strikes and suggested that more operations might follow. He noted that ISIS had learned consequences on Christmas. The Pentagon video showed at least one projectile launching from a warship, providing visual confirmation of the military action. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has cooperated with the security operation, he has also stressed that Nigeria’s constitution protects all faiths and that the country maintains its commitment to religious tolerance.