The Nigerian Government Discloses It Furnished Intelligence for Recent Military Strikes as US Official Predicts of More Operations

Nigeria's government has confirmed that it played a role in the US airstrikes carried out on Christmas Day, as stated by the country's foreign minister on Friday.

Former President Donald Trump had announced the aerial attacks against ISIS militants in the northwestern region of Nigeria after spending weeks decrying the group for targeting Christian communities.

Detailed Consultations Preceded the Military Action

Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that he had engaged in "extensive" discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio immediately prior to and following the airstrike.

He also noted that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had approved for the airstrikes. Tuggar left the door open for additional operations, describing them as an "ongoing process" that would also involve international partners.

"The strikes had no connection to a specific faith," Tuggar emphasized in an interview with the BBC. "The objective is to do with targeting militants who have been killing Nigerians."

US Warns of More Actions in Nigeria

Hours after the Christmas Day operation, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against Islamic State targets in the region.

Hegseth characterized the action as part of efforts to halt the killing of Christians, a stance reiterated by the former president. In a social media post, Hegseth wrote, "He was explicit... the killing of Christian civilians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."

Supporters' Response to the Military Action

The holiday military operation were hailed by certain supporters of the ex-leader, who had been calling for a forceful response to the violence against Christians.

"I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Christmas than by avenging the death of Christians," commented one well-known activist on a digital platform.

Key Points from the Announcement

• Cooperation: Nigeria actively provided crucial information for the American airstrikes.
• Presidential Authorization: President Bola Tinubu gave the green light for the military action.
• Ongoing Process: The campaign is viewed as an "continuing mission" with the possibility of more strikes.
• Secular Objective: Nigerian officials strongly insist the targeting are focused on counter-terrorism, not religion.
• American Stance: A top American official has signaled additional strikes are on the horizon.

The situation underscores the complex security cooperation between the West African nation and the US in combating terrorist threats in the region.