Daily Digest Online

Joint air-ground operation inflicts heavy casualties on retreating militants following failed infiltration attempt. CHIBOK , Borno State - A major assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on the town of Chibok was decisively repelled early Saturday in a coordinated counter-operation by the Nigerian military, security officials confirmed. An estimated 300 insurgents launched a multi-front attack on military positions around 3:00 a.m., targeting the 28 Task Force Brigade, Sector 4 of Operation Hadin Kai. Troops engaged the attackers in a sustained firefight, halting the advance and forcing a disorganized retreat. "No casualties were sustained by our forces, and all equipment remained secure," a military official stated, speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to brief the press. The operation transitioned to an air interdiction phase as the militants withdrew toward the forested Timbuktu Triangle. ...

As the Trump administration deepens security cooperation with Nigeria, the US Congress is preparing to scrutinize the West African nation's record on religious freedom, convening a high-level briefing today focused on the alleged targeted persecution of Christians. This session, which will inform a report mandated by President Biden, highlights a growing tension in US foreign policy: how to support a crucial strategic ally while confronting persistent internal crises that threaten its stability and citizens. In a move that signals escalating concern in Washington, the powerful House Appropriations Committee will today lead a joint congressional briefing examining the wave of violence against religious communities in Nigeria. Chaired by National Security Subcommittee Chairman Mario Díaz-Balart, the session will include members from the Foreign Affairs and Financial Services committees, as well as experts from the US Commission on International Religious Freed...