POLITICS

US, Nigeria Say ISIS Deputy Killed in Operation

PUBLISHED May 16, 2026, 12:59 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

Washington: On Friday, President Donald Trump announced that joint U.S. and Nigerian forces conducted a military operation in Nigeria that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, whom Trump described as the Islamic State group's global second-in-command. He posted the claim on Truth Social, said he directed the mission, and thanked the Government of Nigeria for its cooperation. Following the announcement this week, multiple outlets reported the presidential statement and cited U.S. officials who described al-Mainuki’s alleged role in IS finance and plotting; the Counter Extremism Project provided background on his leadership in West Africa after 2018. Officials have released few operational details; next steps include potential confirmation by U.S. and Nigerian authorities and further intelligence assessments.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2018: Mamman Nur killed; leadership changes in IS West Africa.
2018–2024: Abu-Bilal al-Mainuki (al-Minuki) identified by trackers as a key IS West Africa figure.
16 May 2025: President Trump posts on Truth Social announcing joint US-Nigeria operation killed al-Minuki.
16–17 May 2025: International media reproduce the presidential statement and cite unnamed officials and NGOs.
Post-announcement: Authorities expected to seek independent confirmation and continue regional counterterrorism efforts.

News Intelligence

This operation impacts your safety. It's part of ongoing efforts to dismantle international terrorist networks. Keep informed about global security issues. It helps you understand threats and responses.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

The US and Nigerian governments secured an operational claim of success, potential actionable intelligence gains, and diplomatic reinforcement of counterterrorism cooperation.

Who Impacted

ISIS and its West Africa affiliate lost a senior leader allegedly responsible for organization, finance, and plotting, which may disrupt operations and command cohesion.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The US and Nigerian governments secured an operational claim of success, potential actionable intelligence gains, and diplomatic reinforcement of counterterrorism cooperation.

Who Impacted

ISIS and its West Africa affiliate lost a senior leader allegedly responsible for organization, finance, and plotting, which may disrupt operations and command cohesion.