The United States has withdrawn most of the forces it deployed for a recent operation against Islamic State militants in Nigeria. The head of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, stated that the US is now providing intelligence support at Abuja’s request.
Operation Details
In May, U.S. and Nigerian forces conducted military operations in northeastern Nigeria that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of ISIS globally. The operation demonstrated Washington’s approach of providing specialized capabilities while allowing African partners to lead security operations.
Anderson said the operation disrupted not only local commanders but also broader Islamic State communications and operations. He added that Nigerian military pressure, combined with efforts to publicize the operation, had encouraged additional defections and surrenders among ISIS fighters in northeastern Nigeria.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
