U.S. and Nigerian forces have killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of ISIS globally, in a joint operation. President Donald Trump announced the operation on Truth Social, describing it as a 'meticulously planned and very complex mission' to eliminate a key terrorist leader. Al-Minuki, a Nigerian national, was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2023 as a senior ISIS leader and was sanctioned by the Treasury Department as a specially designated global terrorist.
The operation took place in Africa, where al-Minuki was reportedly hiding. Trump thanked the Nigerian government for its partnership, noting that the operation would diminish ISIS's global operations. The Islamic State has not yet commented on the claim.
Background on al-Minuki and ISIS operations
Al-Minuki was a leader of ISIS in Africa's Sahel region, overseeing operational guidance and funding for the group. The U.S. has previously conducted strikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria, including a Christmas Day operation last year. The group remains active in parts of Africa, including Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, where it has carried out insurgent attacks in recent months.
Trump's previous criticism of Nigeria
Trump had previously criticized Nigeria for its handling of Christian persecution, a claim denied by the Nigerian government. The U.S. conducted strikes in northwestern Nigeria last December following these accusations. The latest operation marks a shift in cooperation between the two nations.
Long-term implications
The elimination of al-Minuki is expected to disrupt ISIS's global operations, though the group's affiliates remain active in Africa and the Middle East. The U.S. continues to conduct strikes against ISIS targets, including recent operations in Syria.