A United States lawmaker, Rep. Riley Moore, has suggested that further American airstrikes on terrorist camps in Nigeria are likely, insisting that the recent operation was aimed at restoring peace and protecting civilians rather than escalating conflict.
Moore made the remarks in a post on his X handle on Monday, dismissing fears that the strikes could trigger a wider confrontation.
According to him, the airstrikes ordered by President Donald Trump were targeted at terrorist groups responsible for widespread killings, including attacks on Christian communities.
“President Trump is not trying to bring war to Nigeria. He is bringing peace and security to Nigeria and to thousands of Christians who face horrific violence and death,” Moore wrote.
He added that the Christmas Day strikes, carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government, had renewed hope among communities affected by insurgency.
Moore said:
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the operation was directed at ISIS-linked militants
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further actions were likely as part of a broader counter-terrorism effort
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the objective was to enhance security and protect vulnerable populations
“This is just the first step. There is more to come, and it is being done in cooperation with the Nigerian government,” he stated.
Violence, displacement highlighted
Speaking on Fox News’ “Mornings with Maria”, Moore alleged that violence against Christians in Nigeria had persisted for more than a decade, claiming that tens of thousands have been killed since 2009.
He also drew attention to the humanitarian situation in the Middle Belt, particularly Benue State, where he said about 600,000 people are living in IDP camps.
Moore recounted meeting families who had lost relatives in attacks, saying the situation on the ground was “more dire than you could imagine”.
US operation confirmed
His comments came after President Trump announced that US forces had conducted airstrikes against ISIS fighters in northwest Nigeria.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) also confirmed the operation, saying it was carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities and resulted in the deaths of multiple militants in Sokoto State.
Officials in Nigeria have yet to provide comprehensive public details of the operations or casualty figures beyond initial confirmations.
Moore maintained that the strikes had boosted morale not only among Christians but across communities affected by insurgency and extremist violence in the country’s north and Middle Belt regions.