Trump Flags Resurgence of ISIS in Nigeria, Warns of Decisive Retaliation

Addressing rising concerns over attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria, President Donald Trump warned that terrorist groups would face severe consequences if the violence continues. He framed his remarks as part of a firm approach against extremists and suggested the United States could take decisive action in response.

Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC on Thursday, Trump said terrorists are aware that assaults on Christians would be met with “violent and vicious” retaliation. He acknowledged the bluntness of his words but insisted they reflected the reality of his stance.

The comments come as Nigeria’s security situation continues to draw international attention, following claims by Trump and some U.S. lawmakers that Christian populations in the country are being systematically targeted.

Trump said that the U.S. military under his administration had “knocked out” the Islamic State (ISIS) in Nigeria because of how they were attacking Christians.

He added that during his first term, ISIS had been largely defeated, but the group regained strength during the four years he was out of office. He attributed the killing of Christians in Nigeria to the militant group and highlighted recent U.S. operations aimed at dismantling their networks in the country.

He emphasized that the resurgence would not be tolerated, warning that any further attacks on Christian communities would trigger a decisive and forceful response from his administration.