The Nigerian Government Reveals It Provided Intelligence for Christmas Day Airstrikes as Defense Secretary Warns of Additional Attacks
The Nigerian foreign ministry has announced that it provided crucial intelligence in the US airstrikes conducted on Christmas Day, according to the nation's foreign minister on Friday.
Former President Donald Trump had announced the aerial attacks against ISIS fighters in the northwestern region of Nigeria after spending weeks decrying the organization for attacking Christians.
Extensive Consultations Came Before the Operation
Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, indicated that he had held "extensive" phone conversations with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio both prior to and following the attack.
He also noted that Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, had approved for the military action. Tuggar did not rule out additional operations, describing them as an "continuous effort" that would potentially include international partners.
"This operation had nothing to do with a particular religion," Tuggar emphasized in an discussion with the BBC. "The objective is to do with attacking terrorists who have been killing Nigerians."
American Official Predicts of More Strikes in Nigeria
Hours after the Christmas Day operation, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned of additional military actions against ISIS locations in north-western Nigeria.
Hegseth characterized the action as part of efforts to stop the killing of Christians, a stance echoed by the ex-commander in chief. In a social media post, Hegseth stated, "He was explicit... the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria must cease. More to come..."
Supporters' Response to the Airstrikes
The Christmas Day strikes were hailed by certain supporters of the ex-leader, who had been calling for a strong military reaction to the attacks against Christians.
"There is no a more fitting manner to celebrate Christmas than by avenging the death of Christians," commented one prominent activist on social media.
Main Takeaways from the Announcement
- Cooperation: Nigeria actively provided key intelligence for the American operation.
- Presidential Authorization: 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 targeting are solely about combating militants, not religion.
- US Commitment: A senior US defense leader has indicated additional military actions are likely.
This development highlights the evolving security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in combating terrorist threats in the Sahel area.
