California (Rajeev Sharma): The United States has carried out a military operation targeting Islamic State-affiliated fighters in northwest Nigeria, President Donald Trump announced, calling the action a direct response to extremist violence in the region.
In a post shared on his social media platform, Truth Social, President Trump said the strike was ordered after reports of repeated attacks by ISIS-linked militants, particularly against Christian communities. He described the operation as forceful and effective, asserting that US forces acted decisively to neutralize the threat.
The President said the mission was conducted under his command and emphasized that Washington would not allow extremist organisations to gain ground. He warned that further action could follow if such groups continue to carry out violence against civilians.
According to the US National Counterterrorism Center, ISIS–West Africa traces its origins to 2015, when a faction of Boko Haram pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. Since then, the group has been involved in attacks on military positions, government facilities, and civilian targets across parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
While specific details of the strike, including casualties and operational scope, have not been publicly disclosed, the announcement highlights the United States’ continued engagement in counterterrorism efforts in Africa. The region has seen persistent instability, with armed groups exploiting remote areas and weak security infrastructure.
Nigerian authorities have yet to release an official statement on the US action. Analysts say the development underscores growing international concern over militant activity in West Africa and signals that global powers remain willing to intervene when extremist violence escalates.
