President Donald J. Trump announced late Tuesday that the United States launched a “powerful and deadly” military strike against Islamic State terrorists operating in northwest Nigeria, citing brutal attacks against Christians in the region.
In a sharply worded statement released Christmas week, Trump said the operation was ordered under his authority as commander in chief and targeted ISIS militants he accused of “viciously killing” innocent Christians at levels not seen in many years. Trump said the terrorists had been warned previously that continued violence against Christians would result in severe consequences.
According to Trump, U.S. forces carried out what he described as “numerous perfect strikes,” emphasizing that the operation demonstrated military capabilities “only the United States is capable of doing.” He said his administration will not allow radical Islamic terrorism to gain a foothold or prosper.
Trump concluded the statement by praising the U.S. military and issuing a Christmas message, warning that further strikes would follow if the slaughter of Christians continues.
