The Nigerian Government Confirms It Provided Intelligence for US-Led Military Strikes as US Official Warns of Additional Operations
The Nigerian foreign ministry has confirmed that it played a role in the American military operation carried out on Christmas Day, according to the country's foreign minister this week.
Former President Donald Trump had announced the strikes targeting ISIS fighters in north-west Nigeria after spending weeks decrying the organization for attacking Christian communities.
Detailed Discussions Came Before the Operation
Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that he had held "lengthy" phone conversations with America's top diplomat Marco Rubio immediately before and after the airstrike.
He further added that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had granted authorization for the military action. 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 particular religion," Tuggar emphasized in an discussion with the BBC. "The objective is about targeting militants who have been killing Nigerians."
US Warns of Further Actions in Nigeria
Shortly following the Christmas Day operation, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned of more strikes against Islamic State targets in the region.
Hegseth characterized the action as part of efforts to stop the killing of Christians, a position echoed by the ex-commander in chief. In a public statement, Hegseth stated, "He was explicit... the killing of Christian civilians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."
Political Reaction to the Military Action
The holiday military operation were hailed by certain supporters of the former president, who had been calling for a forceful response to the attacks against Christians.
"There is no a better way to observe the holiday than by responding to the killings of Christians," commented one well-known activist on a digital platform.
Key Points from the Revelations
- Cooperation: Nigeria supplied crucial information for the American airstrikes.
- High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu gave the green light for the military action.
- Ongoing Process: The operation is viewed as an "continuing mission" with potential for future actions.
- Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials maintain the strikes are solely about combating militants, not religious affiliation.
- US Commitment: A senior US official has signaled additional military actions are likely.
This development highlights the evolving security cooperation between the West African nation and the United States in addressing militant groups in the Sahel area.
