U.S. military strikes on Christmas Day in Nigeria helped prevent terrorist attacks that have previously turned the Christian holiday into a period of bloodshed, a U.S. congressman said.
The strikes, carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government, targeted ISIS-linked militants rather than Christian communities, marking a stark contrast to previous years. Past Christmas celebrations in Nigeria have been marred by deadly attacks, but this year’s military action shifted the focus onto the militants responsible.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts to secure Nigeria and protect civilians from extremist violence. U.S. officials emphasized that the strikes were a first step in stopping the repeated attacks on Christian communities.
In recent years, Nigeria has seen tragic Christmas attacks. On Christmas Eve 2023, gunmen killed at least 140 people and left many others missing in remote Plateau State villages. In 2024, armed herdsmen attacked five predominantly Christian communities in Benue State, killing at least 33 people.
This year, the coordinated action between U.S. forces and Nigerian authorities prevented a repeat of such attacks, allowing Christians in the region to celebrate the holiday without fear.
