The United States government has announced the elimination of a senior ISIS commander allegedly linked to deadly attacks against Christians in Nigeria, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the global fight against terrorism.
United States Secretary of Defense, , disclosed that the terror leader, identified as Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, was killed during a joint counterterrorism operation involving U.S. forces and the Nigerian military.
According to Hegseth, the eliminated commander was regarded as ISIS’ “second-in-command globally” and played a key role in coordinating violent attacks, kidnappings, and extremist activities across parts of West Africa, particularly in Nigeria’s northeastern region.
Reports indicate that the operation was carried out around the Lake Chad Basin, an area long affected by insurgency and terrorist activities linked to ISIS-affiliated groups and Boko Haram factions.
Speaking during a security briefing in Washington, Hegseth stated that the operation formed part of broader efforts by the U.S. government to combat terrorism and protect vulnerable communities allegedly targeted by extremist groups in Nigeria.
He further claimed that the late ISIS figure was responsible for orchestrating attacks that led to the deaths of many Christians and civilians in affected communities.
U.S. President also reportedly praised the operation, describing it as a significant victory against global terrorism and a major blow to ISIS operations outside the Middle East.
The Pentagon reportedly worked closely with the Nigerian Armed Forces and intelligence agencies to track and eliminate the terror suspect after months of surveillance and intelligence gathering.
