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On December 25, 2025, the United States launched significant airstrikes in northwestern Nigeria targeting ISIS militants, following a series of attacks on Christians. The operation, authorized by President Donald Trump, was coordinated with Nigerian authorities and aimed at combating radical Islamic terrorism. Trump referred to the militants as "terrorist scum" and warned of further strikes if violence persists. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the Nigerian government in the operation. However, while Trump emphasized the targeting of those responsible for attacks on Christians, monitoring groups have reported that the violence in Nigeria affects both Christians and Muslims. The Nigerian government has called for collective action against jihadist groups, asserting that the violence is not solely religiously motivated. The situation remains tense as the US continues to address the threat posed by ISIS in the region.