Nigeria, Feb. 5 -- On Christmas night 2025, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) launched missile strikes in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, targeting what it described as Islamic State terrorists. AFRICOM said the operation was coordinated with Nigeria.

However, US President Donald Trump framed the strikes as an attempt to stop the (debunked) 'Christian genocide' taking place in the country - a claim that had earlier led him to threaten Nigeria with sanctions and military action.

The US emphasis on Islamic State and Christian persecution doesn't match Nigeria's security threats. There are also concerns about civilian casualties in Sokoto, the use of poor intelligence and America's true intentions. And by contradicting its stance...