Islamabad, Mar 5, 2025: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts in capturing a high-profile terrorist linked to the devastating 2021 Kabul airport bombing.
Speaking before Congress, Trump announced that the primary suspect, Muhammad Sharifullah, had been taken into custody and was set to be extradited to the United States for prosecution.
He acknowledged Pakistan’s support, calling it a “significant day for the families affected by the attack.”
“Over three years ago, a [Daesh] terrorist carried out a brutal attack at Abbey Gate, claiming the lives of 13 U.S. service members and numerous Afghan civilians,” Trump stated in his nearly two-hour address, the longest delivered by any U.S. president.
The suicide bombing was one of the deadliest incidents during the American withdrawal from Afghanistan, killing 13 U.S. troops and nearly 170 Afghans trying to flee after the Taliban’s takeover.
Trump assured swift action, referring to Sharifullah as a “dangerous individual” who would be held accountable for his crimes.
PM Shehbaz Highlights Pakistan’s Anti-Terror Commitment
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Trump’s acknowledgment of Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism.
He reiterated that Pakistan has always played a crucial role in eliminating extremist threats and preventing militant groups from operating within its borders.
“Pakistan remains resolute and unwavering in its mission to eradicate terrorism in all its forms,” Shehbaz stated.
He emphasized that the nation has sacrificed immensely in its fight against terrorism, with over 80,000 civilians and military personnel losing their lives in the battle against extremism.
He further assured continued cooperation with the U.S. to ensure regional stability and long-term peace.
CIA Intelligence Aided Arrest
Reports suggest that Muhammad Sharifullah’s capture was made possible through intelligence shared by the CIA.
Acting on this information, Pakistani security forces successfully apprehended the Daesh-affiliated suspect, also known as Jafar.
A senior U.S. official confirmed that Sharifullah was the mastermind behind the August 26 bombing.
Following his return to office, Trump reportedly directed CIA Director John Ratcliffe to prioritize bringing the Abbey Gate attackers to justice.
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High-level discussions between U.S. and Pakistani authorities, including at the Munich Security Conference, played a crucial role in securing the arrest.
However, Pakistani officials have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the operation.
Trump Condemns Kabul Withdrawal Strategy
During his address, Trump strongly criticized former President Joe Biden’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, calling it “one of the most humiliating episodes in American history.
” He blamed the chaotic evacuation on poor planning and execution by the Biden administration.
However, Biden’s officials have countered this claim, arguing that the situation was shaped by the policies of the previous administration.
While acknowledging delays in the evacuation process, they pointed to failures by Afghan forces and intelligence agencies as contributing factors.
Strengthening US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Collaboration
This latest development highlights Pakistan’s crucial role in global counterterrorism operations.
The successful arrest of a high-profile terrorist underscores the nation’s commitment to eliminating extremist threats and maintaining strong diplomatic relations with the U.S. As both countries continue their partnership, efforts remain focused on enhancing security and ensuring lasting peace in the region.
