US-Nigeria Joint Operation Eliminates Key IS Leader

US and Nigerian military forces successfully conducted a joint operation to eliminate a senior leader of the Islamic State (IS) group in Nigeria, announced President Donald Trump. The mission, targeting Abu Bakr al-Mainuki, a significant figure in IS, was described as a critical success in regional counterterrorism efforts.

Carried out with precision over three hours of darkness on an early Saturday, the mission faced no casualties or loss of assets. The operation occurred in the Lake Chad Basin, where Al-Mainuki was reportedly killed alongside several lieutenants, according to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.

Al-Mainuki, believed to be the second-in-command globally within IS, played a vital role in orchestrating attacks against US interests. His death disrupts IS operations in West Africa and highlights US-Nigeria cooperation in battling militancy in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)