The US carried out missile strikes against Islamic State targets in Nigeria on Christmas Day. These strikes aimed to stop Islamic militants from harming Christians in Nigeria. The US worked with the Nigerian government for these attacks. Donald Trump supporters praised the strikes. Far-right activist Laura Loomer said, "I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Christmas than by avenging the death of Christians through the justified mass killing of Islamic terrorists. You’ve got to love it! Death to all Islamic terrorists! Thank you." Republican US House member Randy Fine called the strikes an "amazing Christmas present!" He said, "With Muslim terrorists attacking Christians in Nigeria, Syria, and even Europe – simply for refusing to submit to Islam – the president is showing that we will no longer tolerate these barbarians." Other Republican lawmakers joined the praise. Senator Ted Budd said IS caused the deaths of thousands of Christians in Nigeria and that the strikes would "save lives & protect religious freedom." Congressman Bill Huizenga noted a changing attitude in Nigeria towards protecting Christians and moderate Muslims. Senator Tom Cotton called the fighters "bloodthirsty [IS] savages" persecuting Christians and killing Americans. Pressure on the Trump administration to act in Nigeria has been rising since reports highlighted religious violence against Christians. Senator Ted Cruz pointed out that since 2009, over 50,000 Christians were killed, with churches and schools destroyed. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that the Nigerian government struggled to stop attacks by groups like Boko Haram and IS West Africa Province. These strikes came just days after US attacks on Islamic State in Syria following an attack that killed US soldiers. Central Command leader Adm Brad Cooper said the Syrian strikes are vital to preventing terror attacks on the US. Additional US strikes on IS targets in northern Nigeria may follow, according to reports.