U.S. airstrikes in Nigeria target ISWAP militants after surge in attacks on Christians, at Nigeria’s request.

America. carried out airstrikes against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in northwest Nigeria in response to an increase in attacks directed at Christian communities. At Nigeria's request, the operation represents a direct U.S. combat action intended to safeguard civilians and impair ISWAP's capabilities. The organization, a regional branch of the larger Islamic State, continues to operate in the Lake Chad Basin, taking advantage of weak governance and instability to increase its power. Although there are few specifics regarding the strike's effects, the action indicates a major escalation in U.S. attempts to combat the group's increasing threat in West Africa.