“Merry Christmas,” says Trump as the U.S. carries out deadly strikes on ISIS targets in Nigeria

Trump Says “Merry Christmas” as U.S. Launches Deadly Strikes on ISIS in Nigeria

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Summary: Trump announces U.S. airstrikes on ISIS camps in Nigeria, citing protection of Christians and security.

In an unusual holiday message, President Donald Trump wished Americans a “Merry Christmas” while announcing that the United States had carried out precision airstrikes on ISIS-linked targets in northeastern Nigeria. The operation, according to the White House, came in response to a series of brutal attacks on local communities, including the killing of Christian civilians by the extremist group.

Trump framed the strikes as a necessary step to protect innocent people and push back against terrorism in the region. In his remarks, he highlighted the plight of Christians and other minorities who have been targeted by militants, saying the U.S. would not stand by while such atrocities occur. While Christmas greetings might traditionally focus on peace and goodwill, the president used the occasion to underline what he described as America’s commitment to fighting violent extremism abroad.

Details from U.S. military sources indicate that the strikes were aimed at ISIS-affiliated training camps and leadership positions in the rugged terrain of northeastern Nigeria, a region long plagued by insurgent groups. Local officials reported explosions and confirmed losses among militant fighters, though independent confirmation of numbers is still emerging.

The Nigerian government welcomed the action, saying it demonstrated international solidarity against terrorism and boosted its own efforts to push back extremist groups in areas where security forces have struggled. However, some commentators have raised questions about the timing of the announcement — blending holiday messaging with reports of military action — suggesting it could be seen as politically charged.

Experts note that ISIS in West Africa has carried out a string of violent attacks on villages, especially targeting communities on Nigeria’s eastern flank, leading to displacement and humanitarian suffering. The administration’s strikes are carried out as a direct response to the ongoing threats and a reminder that counter-terror operations continue even during the holiday season.

As the news is being circulated, people have different opinions on it. Some view the action as a strong response to terrorism, while others worry about the consequences of increased military involvement on the continent. What’s clear is that the holiday season brought no pause to America’s global counter-terror efforts — and may even have provided a high-profile moment for Washington to publicly reaffirm its strategic priorities.