United States Congressman Riley M. Moore has confirmed that at least 12 Tomahawk missiles were launched against suspected terrorist targets in Sokoto State, Nigeria, during a US military operation carried out on Christmas Day.
Moore, who represents Virginia’s Second District, disclosed this during an interview with Fox News, stating that the strikes were directed at Islamic State (ISIS) elements operating in the region. According to him, the operation was conducted in coordination with Nigerian security forces.
The airstrikes, which took place on the night of December 25, sparked widespread fear among residents of Sokoto State, with reports of loud explosions and heightened security activity across affected areas.
While some security analysts initially questioned the effectiveness of the operation, claiming the missiles may have hit non-strategic locations such as farmlands with no known terrorist presence, emerging details later suggested otherwise. Sources familiar with the operation indicated that several terrorists were killed during the joint US-Nigerian military action.
Commenting on the strikes, Moore said the operation marked a decisive step against extremist groups.
“This year, thanks to President Trump, radical Islamic terrorists were on the receiving end of 12 Tomahawk missiles,” he said. “The successful strikes on ISIS, carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government, are a first step toward securing the country and ending the killing of innocent people.”
Despite the confirmation, tension remains high in parts of Sokoto, as residents continue to grapple with uncertainty following the foreign military intervention.