The United States conducted powerful airstrikes on Islamic State (ISIS/Daesh) militants in northwest Nigeria on December 25, 2025, targeting fighters accused of killing Christians in the region, US President Donald Trump announced on social media. The strikes, which he described as “powerful and deadly,” were carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities and reportedly killed multiple ISIS militants, according to the US Africa Command. Trump framed the action as retaliation against extremist violence and warned of more military action if attacks continued. Nigeria’s government emphasized ongoing cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts amid its complex security challenges. 

At least five worshippers were killed and 35 others injured when a bomb exploded inside the Al‑Adum mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, during evening prayers, police said. The blast, which occurred around 6 p.m. local time, is believed to be a suicide attack, with fragments of a suspected suicide vest found at the scene. No group has yet claimed responsibility. The incident highlights ongoing insecurity in northeastern Nigeria, where Islamist insurgents, including Boko Haram and its ISWAP faction, have waged a long‑running insurgency. Authorities have condemned the attack and urged vigilance during the festive season.

The United States conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL) militants in northwest Nigeria, targeting fighters accused of attacking communities, especially Christians, according to US President Donald Trump. The strikes, described as “powerful and deadly,” were carried out on Christmas Day (December 25, 2025) and reportedly killed multiple militants in Sokoto State. The US Africa Command said the operation occurred in coordination with and at the request of Nigerian authorities, involving intelligence sharing and strategic cooperation. Nigeria’s foreign ministry confirmed the action as part of broader counter-terrorism efforts. Trump framed the strikes as retaliation against extremist violence toward Christians, though Nigerian officials stress militants target all civilians. (PC: AP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a death wish for Russian President Vladimir Putin following devastating Christmas attacks on Ukraine. Invoking the Ukrainian myth that "the heavens open" on Christmas night, Zelenskyy stated, "May he perish," without naming Putin directly. Russia launched major missile strikes killing three people and causing widespread power outages on Christmas Eve, followed by 131 drone attacks on Christmas Day. Ukrainian defenses intercepted most drones, but 22 struck 15 regions. Zelenskyy condemned Russia's "godless" strikes during the festival, questioning their peace intentions. He urged citizens to remain resilient, honoring fallen heroes who defended Ukraine, declaring, "We will not lose our way in the darkness." 

Another mob lynching occurred in Bangladesh as Amrit Mondal, alias Samrat, was beaten to death in Rajbari's Pangsha upazila over extortion allegations. The incident happened Wednesday night at Hosendanga village when Samrat and his gang allegedly went to collect extortion money from local resident Shahidul Islam. When occupants raised alarm shouting "robbers," locals rushed and beat Samrat fatally. Police rescued him critically injured around 11 pm, but he died at 2 am at Pangsha Upazila Health Complex. Police arrested his associate Mohammad Selim, seizing two firearms. Samrat had two criminal cases, including murder, filed against him. This follows Dipu Chandra Das's recent lynching in Mymensingh over blasphemy allegations. (PC: X)

Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman appealed for national unity after landing in Dhaka following a 17-year absence. Addressing thousands of supporters directly from the airport, the 60-year-old son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia called on citizens across all political and religious backgrounds to work together for peace and stability. His return comes amid massive unrest following youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi's murder, who led last year's protests that toppled Sheikh Hasina's government. Rahman, a top prime ministerial contender, pledged to create a safe Bangladesh for all citizens regardless of faith or ethnicity. His unity call gains significance as Jamaat-e-Islami emerges as BNP's main rival after Awami League's electoral ban.

A Hindu man, identified as Amrit Mondal (also known as Samrat), was beaten to death by a mob in Rajbari district, Bangladesh, late Wednesday after being accused of extortion, police said. Locals claimed he and his associates demanded money from a resident, prompting villagers to attack him when they thought he was a robber. Mondal was taken to a health complex but died early Thursday. Police detained one associate and recovered firearms. The incident follows recent communal violence in Bangladesh, including the lynching of another Hindu man days earlier, raising concerns over mob justice and minority safety. (PC: India Today)

Israeli police detained a Palestinian man dressed as Santa Claus at a Christmas celebration in Haifa, forcibly dispersing the event and also arresting a DJ and a street vendor before later releasing them. Rights group Mossawa Centre alleged excessive force and said the raid lacked legal authority, while police claimed the Santa-clad man resisted arrest and assaulted an officer. Footage shows officers dragging him from the scene. The incident, set amid broader holiday tensions, drew criticism as Palestinians mark Christmas under ongoing restrictions and amid regional conflict. 

Thailand has said the removal of a Lord Vishnu statue near its border with Cambodia was driven by security needs and not religious reasons. Officials said the structure was not a registered religious site and was a later installation in a disputed area. Videos on social media showed the idol being pulled down by Thai forces, though the clips could not be verified. India’s foreign ministry said such acts hurt religious sentiments and urged both sides to resolve issues through dialogue. Cambodia claimed the statue stood inside its territory and accused Thailand of damaging a heritage site. The incident comes amid renewed border clashes between the two countries, with talks now under way to ease tensions. (PC: HT)

Tarique Rahman, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, returned to Bangladesh on Thursday after living in London for 17 years. The 60-year-old is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and is seen as the party’s main face ahead of the next general election. BNP leaders said large crowds gathered in Dhaka to welcome him. Rahman left Bangladesh in 2008 during the rule of Sheikh Hasina. Several cases were filed against him at the time, but he was cleared after Hasina was removed last year. Hasina now lives in India and her Awami League is unlikely to contest the coming polls. (PC: BBC)