US launches deadly strike on ISIS targets in Nigeria after group targeted Christians, President Trump says
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President Donald Trump announced on his social media platform Thursday that he had authorized a “powerful and deadly strike” against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria. He accused the group of “targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians.”

This announcement follows a video Trump shared in early November, where he threatened to take action in Nigeria with a “guns-a-blazing” approach. At the time, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced Trump’s stance with a post on X, indicating that the Department of Defense was “preparing for action.”

In his post, Trump stated, “I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was. The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing.”

The specifics regarding the strike’s outcome or the exact targets remain unclear. ABC News has reached out to the White House seeking further details.

Hegseth, in another post on X, hinted at future actions, expressing gratitude to the Nigerian government for its support and cooperation.

“The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end. 

“The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas.”

Hegseth ended his post with, “Merry Christmas!”

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Copyright © 2025 ABC News Internet Ventures.

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