U.S. and Nigerian Forces Target ISIS in Nigeria

U.S. and Nigerian military forces have launched another attack on ISIS militants in Nigeria. This operation follows closely after the strike that killed a prominent ISIS leader, according to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).

AFRICOM reported that coordinated kinetic strikes took place on Monday with the Nigerian government. While full evaluations of the operation’s success are ongoing, AFRICOM confirmed that no U.S. or Nigerian troops were injured.

The elimination of these terrorists reduces their ability to organize attacks threatening the safety and security of the U.S. and its allies, AFRICOM stated.

The recent actions come after a public statement by President Donald Trump on Friday, announcing the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki. He was identified as the second-in-command of ISIS worldwide.

Trump commented, “Abu-Bilal al-Minuki thought he could seek refuge in Africa, but we had reliable sources tracking his movements. He will no longer threaten Africa’s population or aid in plotting attacks on Americans.” This was posted on Truth Social.

In this operation, which occurred on Sunday, May 17, 2026, no U.S. or Nigerian forces were harmed, according to AFRICOM.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed on Saturday that U.S. forces, together with the Nigerian military, had successfully targeted and killed al-Minuki along with other ISIS leaders.

For months, we tracked this key ISIS figure in Nigeria responsible for killing many, particularly Christians. We succeeded in neutralizing him and his group, wrote Hegseth.

The U.S. military continues to maintain pressure on ISIS, demonstrated by multiple strikes on over 30 ISIS targets in Syria following an ambush last December that resulted in the death of U.S. troops. These actions were part of joint efforts to sustain a military campaign against remaining ISIS forces.