Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for recognizing Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts. He appreciated the acknowledgment of Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability. In a post on his X account, he reaffirmed the country’s commitment to working with the United States to secure lasting peace.
His statement followed Trump’s public appreciation of Pakistan’s role in apprehending the key terrorist behind the deadly 2021 Kabul airport bombing. The attack, which occurred during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members and nearly 170 Afghan civilians.
The arrested militant, identified as Sharifullah, was a high-ranking commander of Daesh. He was captured in a successful intelligence-led operation near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the arrested terrorist was an Afghan national. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing stance against terrorism and its dedication to preventing militant groups from using its territory.
“Pakistan has always played a critical role in counter-terrorism efforts,” the prime minister stated. He highlighted the country’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, noting that more than 80,000 Pakistani soldiers and civilians have lost their lives in this battle. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism in all forms and strengthen security in the region.
During his address to Congress, President Trump confirmed the terrorist’s capture. “Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have just apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity,” he stated. Trump referred to the militant as a “monster” and expressed gratitude toward Pakistan for its assistance. He emphasized that the arrest was a major moment for the families of the victims.
Trump also criticized the US withdrawal from Afghanistan under President Joe Biden. He called the exit strategy “disastrous and incompetent,” stating it was one of the most embarrassing moments in US history. However, he clarified that his criticism was aimed at the execution of the withdrawal rather than the decision itself.
A news agency reported that Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts succeeded with intelligence provided by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). According to reports, Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, was among the Daesh leaders involved in planning the Kabul airport bombing. He was taken into custody by Pakistani intelligence agencies and is now being transferred to the United States.
A senior US official confirmed that Sharifullah was the mastermind behind the attack. The report further stated that after taking office, President Trump instructed CIA Director John Ratcliffe to prioritize the capture of those responsible for the Abbey Gate bombing. The CIA chief reportedly raised the issue with senior Pakistani officials immediately after assuming office. A high-level discussion on the matter was also held during the Munich Security Conference in February.
CNN revealed that an indictment against Sharifullah was unsealed in the Eastern District of Virginia. He has been charged with providing support to a designated terrorist organization, which resulted in loss of life. FBI agents questioned him on Sunday, during which he admitted to being recruited into Daesh-K in 2016. According to court documents, he actively participated in multiple deadly attacks for the terrorist group.
The indictment further disclosed that Sharifullah was imprisoned from 2019 until just two weeks before the Kabul airport bombing. Upon his release, Daesh operatives contacted him for assistance in planning the attack. He was assigned to scout a route near Hamid Karzai International Airport and check for security checkpoints. He later informed his contacts that the path was clear, allowing the suicide bomber to proceed undetected.
On the day of the attack, Sharifullah was instructed to leave the area. Shortly after, he became aware of the bombing and identified the attacker as a Daesh-K militant he had met in prison.
Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts have once again demonstrated the country’s commitment to regional stability. As Pakistan continues to combat terrorism, its collaboration with international partners remains crucial in maintaining security and eliminating extremist threats.
