Trump launches strikes against Islamic State in Nigeria

The United States has carried out an air strike against Islamic State linked fighters in northwest Nigeria, in an operation coordinated with the Nigerian government. US President Donald Trump said the strike targeted ISIL militants who he claims have been carrying out brutal attacks on Christian communities in the region. The US military’s Africa Command confirmed the strike took place in Sokoto state and said several ISIL fighters were killed. On his part, Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar says the operation was a joint effort requested by Nigeria and based on intelligence provided by Nigerian authorities. The strike follows earlier warnings by President Trump that Christianity faces what he called an existential threat in Nigeria.