The Nigerian Government Reveals It Supplied Intelligence for Christmas Day Airstrikes as Defense Secretary Warns of Additional Attacks
The Nigerian government has confirmed that it played a role in the American military operation conducted on December 25, as stated by the nation's foreign minister on Friday.
Ex-President Donald Trump had announced the strikes against ISIS militants in the northwestern region of Nigeria after a period of criticizing the group for targeting Christian communities.
Extensive Discussions Preceded the Military Action
Nigeria's top diplomat, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that he had engaged in "extensive" discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio immediately prior to and following the attack.
He further added that Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, had granted authorization for the military action. Tuggar left the door open for further strikes, characterizing them as an "continuous effort" that would also involve other countries.
"The strikes had no connection to a particular religion," Tuggar insisted in an interview with the BBC. "The objective is about attacking terrorists who have been murdering Nigerian citizens."
American Official Predicts of More Actions in Nigeria
Shortly following the Christmas Day operation, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth cautioned of more strikes against ISIS locations in the region.
Hegseth characterized the action as part of a mission to stop the targeting of Christian individuals, a stance reiterated by the ex-commander in chief. In a social media post, Hegseth stated, "The president was clear... the killing of Christian civilians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."
Supporters' Response to the Airstrikes
The holiday military operation were hailed by some supporters of the ex-leader, who had been calling for a strong military reaction to the violence against Christians.
"I can’t think of a more fitting manner to observe the holiday than by responding to the killings of Christians," posted one well-known activist on a digital platform.
Key Points from the Revelations
- Cooperation: Nigeria supplied crucial information for the US-led airstrikes.
- Presidential Authorization: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the strikes.
- Ongoing Process: The campaign is viewed as an "ongoing process" with the possibility of more strikes.
- Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials strongly insist the strikes are solely about counter-terrorism, not religion.
- American Stance: A top American official has indicated additional strikes are likely.
This development underscores the complex military partnership between the West African nation and the United States in combating terrorist threats in the Sahel area.
