The Nigerian Government Reveals It Provided Intelligence for Christmas Day Airstrikes as Defense Secretary Predicts of More Attacks
The Nigerian foreign ministry has announced that it provided crucial intelligence in the US airstrikes carried out on Christmas Day, as stated by the nation's foreign minister this week.
Ex-President Donald Trump previously declared the aerial attacks targeting ISIS fighters in the northwestern region of Nigeria after a period of criticizing the group for attacking Christian communities.
Detailed Consultations Came Before the Operation
Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, explained that he had engaged in "lengthy" phone conversations with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio immediately before and after the airstrike.
He further added that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had approved for the airstrikes. Tuggar did not rule out further strikes, describing them as an "ongoing process" that would potentially include international partners.
"The strikes had no connection to a specific faith," Tuggar insisted in an discussion with the BBC. "The objective is about attacking terrorists who have been killing Nigerians."
American Official Predicts of Further Actions in Nigeria
Shortly following the Christmas Day operation, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against ISIS locations in the region.
Hegseth described the strikes as part of efforts to halt the targeting of Christian individuals, a stance reiterated by the former president. In a social media post, Hegseth stated, "He was explicit... the killing of Christian civilians in Nigeria must cease. More to come..."
Political Reaction to the Military Action
The holiday military operation were hailed by some political allies of the former president, who had been agitating for a forceful response to the attacks against Christians.
"There is no a more fitting manner to celebrate Christmas than by responding to the killings of Christians," commented one prominent political figure on a digital platform.
Key Points from the Announcement
- Intelligence Sharing: Nigeria actively provided key intelligence for the US-led operation.
- High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the military action.
- Continuous Effort: The operation is viewed as an "continuing mission" with potential for more strikes.
- Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials strongly insist the strikes are focused on counter-terrorism, not religious affiliation.
- US Commitment: A top American defense leader has indicated additional strikes are on the horizon.
The situation highlights the evolving military partnership between the West African nation and the US in combating militant groups in the region.
