US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that American forces carried out several deadly airstrikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria. He claimed the strikes were ordered by him and were aimed at stopping attacks on Christians in the region.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said the US military  hit ISIS fighters operating in northwest Nigeria. He described the operation as powerful and said it involved “many perfect strikes.” Trump said the action was taken after ISIS terrorists allegedly targeted and killed innocent Christians.

According to Trump, the violence against Christians in parts of Nigeria had become very serious. He claimed the level of attacks had not been seen for many years. Trump said he had earlier warned the terrorist group to stop killing Christians, and when they did not listen, the US military took action.

Trump also praised the US armed forces for carrying out the operation successfully. He said the strikes showed that the United States would not allow extremist groups to grow stronger under his leadership. In his message, Trump wished Americans a Merry Christmas and asked God to bless the US military.

Nigeria has been facing violence from extremist groups for many years. Groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-linked factions have carried out attacks mainly in the northern and northeastern parts of the country. These attacks have killed thousands of people and forced many families to leave their homes.

Recently, the United States designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” under a law that focuses on religious freedom. This designation is used when there are serious concerns about religious violence or discrimination. In November, Trump said he had asked the Pentagon to prepare plans for possible military action due to reports of violence against Christians.

The US State Department has also announced visa restrictions on Nigerian individuals believed to be linked to mass killings and attacks on Christians. These restrictions also apply to their family members.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to protect religious freedom in the country. In a Christmas message shared on social media, Tinubu said his government is committed to protecting people of all religions from violence. He said ensuring security, unity, and stability remains a top priority.

However, Nigeria’s government has denied claims that Christians are being deliberately targeted. Officials say extremist groups attack both Muslims and Christians and that the security situation is complex. Nigeria’s population is almost evenly split between Muslims, mainly in the north, and Christians, mostly in the south.