Trump: Department of War Ready as ISIS Finds Out on Christmas

President Donald Trump disclosed Thursday that American forces had conducted strikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, targeting militants the president described as “terrorist scum” attacking Christian communities. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that the Department of War is “always ready” and ISIS “found out tonight.”
The military operation followed Trump’s warnings from October and November characterizing violence against Nigerian Christians as an “existential threat” and potential “genocide.” The president had made clear that continued attacks would provoke American military intervention, a commitment realized through strikes conducted on Christmas Day.
Trump’s announcement detailed that the Department of War executed “numerous perfect strikes” against militants who had been systematically killing innocent Christians. He emphasized that only the United States possesses such military capabilities and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preventing radical Islamic terrorism from flourishing.
The Nigerian Foreign Ministry confirmed the strikes as part of ongoing security cooperation between the two countries. The partnership includes intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at neutralizing militant groups. Nigerian officials stressed that terrorist violence against any religious community represents an affront to the country’s values.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Nigeria for its cooperation and suggested that more operations could follow, stating “More to come.” He referenced Trump’s clear warnings about ending violence against Christians. The Pentagon released video footage showing weaponry being deployed from warships. While Nigerian President Bola Ahmed has cooperated with the security operation, he has also emphasized that Nigeria’s constitution protects citizens of all faiths and that characterizations of religious intolerance do not reflect the country’s actual commitment to protecting all religious groups.