United States President Donald Trump announced that the United States conducted a 'powerful and deadly' strike against Islamic State militants in Nigeria, following weeks of criticism directed at Nigeria's government for not stopping attacks on Christians. The operation, coordinated with Nigeria's government and military, targeted groups accused of perpetrating violence against Christian communities, though officials emphasized that Nigeria's security crisis affects both Christians and Muslims. Security analysts believe the strikes may have focused on the Lakurawa group, a violent faction controlling parts of northwestern Nigeria. While the United States has reduced its military presence in Africa, this action signals ongoing concern about extremist violence and religious persecution in Nigeria, a country deeply divided along religious lines and facing multiple security threats.