Driving the news:
The United States conducted airstrikes on Friday in northwestern Nigeria, an operation President Donald Trump described as targeting ISIS terrorists. However, evidence from the ground indicates that civilian infrastructure—rather than militant positions—was struck.
Why it matters:
The discrepancy between Washington’s claims and the reported on-the-ground damage raises serious questions about civilian safety, transparency, and accountability in U.S. military operations in Africa.
The big picture:
The strikes impacted multiple civilian sites in Kwara and Sokoto states, heightening fears among residents and casting doubt on the accuracy of U.S. targeting assessments.
Key points:
- Civilian homes and shops were destroyed in Offa town, Kwara State.
- An onion farm was hit in the Jabo community, Sokoto State.
- At least four civilians were injured in Kwara State.
- Reporting from Iran Press and local videos document damage to civilian homes, shops, and farmland.
Go deeper:
U.S. military engagement in Africa has expanded in recent years under the guise of counterterrorism efforts, with human rights organizations repeatedly expressing concerns over civilian casualties and lack of transparency in aerial operations.
Zohre Khazaee - Mojtaba Darabi
