ISLAMABAD, March 5 – Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to counterterrorism efforts and regional security following the arrest of Mohammad Sharifullah, a key figure accused of orchestrating a deadly attack on U.S. troops in Kabul in 2021. The arrest, carried out through a military operation along the Afghan border, marks a significant moment in the evolving security cooperation between Islamabad and Washington.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering stance against terrorism and highlighted the country’s ongoing partnership with the United States in maintaining stability in the region. Sharif affirmed on Wednesday that Pakistan remains committed to working closely with the U.S. to maintain peace and stability, shortly after President Donald Trump recognized the country’s efforts in apprehending Sharifullah. The suspect is now in U.S. custody and is being transported to face charges.
U.S. Charges Against Sharifullah
Sharifullah is facing legal proceedings in the United States, where he has been charged with planning and facilitating the 2021 attack at Kabul airport. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 170 Afghans and 13 American service members, occurring during a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. and allied personnel following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan. The attack was claimed by ISIS-K, the Afghan branch of the Islamic State group, and the U.S. Department of Justice has accused Sharifullah of providing material support and resources to the militant organization.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirmed that Sharifullah had confessed to his role in the bombing, describing him as a key planner behind the attack. The FBI, in coordination with the CIA, facilitated the operation leading to his capture, and a scheduled court hearing in Virginia is expected to lay out further details regarding his involvement.
Pakistan’s Role in the Operation
Pakistan’s military played a crucial role in tracking and capturing Sharifullah along the border region with Afghanistan. Prime Minister Sharif clarified that Sharifullah is an Afghan national and a high-ranking commander within ISIS-K. “This arrest demonstrates Pakistan’s determination to combat terrorism and bring perpetrators to justice,” Sharif remarked, acknowledging the United States’ appreciation for the country’s efforts.
The swift operation underscores Pakistan’s strategic position in regional security dynamics and highlights its ability to collaborate effectively in counterterrorism efforts. Security officials in Islamabad indicated that intelligence-sharing played a key role in locating and apprehending Sharifullah. A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the development as part of broader counterterrorism measures undertaken with strong bilateral cooperation.
Afghanistan’s Response and Regional Implications
In response to the arrest, a spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Taliban government distanced Kabul from the situation, stating that the issue does not concern Afghanistan. The Taliban has consistently opposed the presence of ISIS-K within its borders and has conducted its own operations against the extremist group. However, tensions persist regarding cross-border security challenges between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar engaged in talks with U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz to emphasize Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties. “Pakistan remains eager to build on its long-standing and broad-based relationship with the U.S.,” Dar stated, emphasizing a renewed approach under the Trump administration.
Evolving U.S.-Pakistan Relations
The relationship between Pakistan and the United States has witnessed fluctuations in recent years, particularly following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Concerns over Pakistan’s alleged ties with the Taliban had previously strained diplomatic relations, though Islamabad has consistently denied such accusations. The recent counterterrorism operation and subsequent acknowledgment by the U.S. government signal a potential shift in Washington’s engagement with Pakistan.
Michael Kugelman, Director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, noted that the arrest represents a pivotal moment for U.S.-Pakistan ties. “This is a significant development, as relations have remained unsettled since the U.S. exit from Afghanistan,” Kugelman observed.
Pakistan’s renewed emphasis on counterterrorism aligns with its broader strategy of leveraging security cooperation to strengthen diplomatic ties with Washington. Defense analyst Ayesha Siddiqa suggested that the Sharifullah case presents Islamabad with an opportunity to reassert its importance as a strategic ally. Siddiqa noted that Pakistan is leveraging security issues to establish engagement with President Trump, who otherwise shows limited interest in the country.
Looking Ahead
As Sharifullah faces trial in the U.S., Pakistan’s leadership remains focused on reinforcing its counterterrorism credentials on the global stage. The arrest not only enhances Pakistan’s credibility in tackling extremism but also repositions Islamabad as a crucial partner in the ongoing fight against global terrorism. With security cooperation at the forefront, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with the U.S. appears to be moving in a constructive direction, potentially reshaping the contours of their relationship in the years to come.