United States Representative Riley Moore has indicated that additional military strikes against militants linked to the Islamic State in Nigeria could be on the horizon. This follows operations authorized by President Donald Trump on Christmas Day, which Moore described as a mission to enhance security and safeguard Christian communities enduring violence.
Christmas Day Strikes Mark Strategic Shift
Moore's comments came during a televised interview addressing the U.S. military strikes conducted on December 25 against militant targets in north-west Nigeria. Both American and Nigerian officials confirmed the action was carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government.
"President Trump is not trying to bring war to Nigeria, he’s bringing peace and security to Nigeria and to the thousands of Christians who face horrific violence and death," Moore stated. He emphasized that the strikes against Islamic State affiliates offered renewed hope to Christians, especially in regions that have suffered repeated attacks during previous holiday seasons.
Targeting Terrorist Infrastructure
According to U.S. authorities, the aerial operations focused on camps utilized by Islamic State-aligned groups operating in parts of north-west Nigeria. Nigerian officials corroborated this, noting the mission benefited from intelligence support provided by Nigerian security agencies. This collaboration is part of the ongoing counter-terrorism partnership between the two nations.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) stated the objective was to degrade the operational capabilities of extremist factions responsible for assaults on both civilians and security personnel. Nigerian authorities have labeled the targeted groups a direct threat to national security, citing their involvement in killings, kidnappings, and raids on rural communities.
Focus on Prevention and Continued Coordination
Moore highlighted that the Christmas Day intervention represented a departure from previous years when civilians were often the victims of attacks during the festive period. He explained the current U.S. administration's strategy is centered on pre-empting violence by targeting militant groups before they can execute their plans.
U.S. officials have reiterated that the military action was undertaken with the full consent of the Nigerian government, forming a component of the broader security cooperation between Abuja and Washington. Nigeria has consistently received intelligence, training, and logistical backing from international allies in its efforts to curb militant activities.
Moore, who has previously advocated for stronger global focus on attacks targeting Christian communities in Nigeria, urged for sustained U.S. involvement in tackling extremist violence. He clarified that any future military action would be contingent on ground developments and continued coordination with Nigerian authorities.
For their part, Nigerian officials maintain that all counter-terrorism operations are aimed at armed groups that threaten civilians, irrespective of religious affiliation. They have repeatedly affirmed their commitment to restoring lasting security across all affected regions.
