A United States lawmaker has confirmed that American forces launched at least 12 Tomahawk missiles at terrorist targets in Sokoto State on December 25.
Rep. Riley M. Moore, who represents Virginia’s Second District in the US Congress, disclosed this during an interview with Fox News. According to him, the strikes were carried out as part of a joint operation between the United States and Nigerian security forces.
Reports had earlier emerged that the US military conducted airstrikes in parts of Sokoto State on Christmas night. While some security analysts initially claimed the operation was ineffective, alleging that the missiles hit farms and areas with no known terrorist presence, fresh details later suggested that several terrorists were killed during the coordinated attacks.
Moore said the strikes were ordered under President Donald Trump’s leadership and were aimed at Islamic State-linked terrorists operating in the region. He described the missile launches as a strong warning to extremist groups and said the operation marked the beginning of broader efforts to curb terrorism and protect civilians.
“The successful strikes on ISIS, in coordination with the Nigerian government, are just the first step to securing the country and ending the killing of innocent people,” Moore said.
Since the operation, residents of Sokoto State have reportedly expressed fear and uncertainty over the military activity, as concerns grow about security and the possible impact of further strikes.
