Abu Bilal al-Minuki, identified by the Trump administration as the second-highest-ranking leader of the Islamic State globally, has been killed in a joint military operation carried out by the United States and Nigeria, President Trump announced Friday. The operation represents one of the most significant counterterrorism strikes against ISIS leadership in recent years.

Trump made the announcement publicly, framing the strike as a major victory against the Islamic State's global network. Al-Minuki had been considered a key figure in the organization's command structure and was linked to ISIS operations extending beyond the Middle East into Africa, where the group has expanded its footprint in recent years.

The operation underscores the growing strategic importance of West Africa in global counterterrorism efforts. ISIS and affiliated groups have expanded their presence across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, and Nigeria has been a central front in efforts to contain the organization. The joint nature of the strike reflects ongoing U.S. security partnerships with African nations.

Further details about the specific location, method, and timing of the operation had not been fully disclosed as of Friday. U.S. officials have not yet provided an independent assessment of al-Minuki's precise role or confirmed additional operational specifics beyond the president's announcement.