Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked President Trump for recognizing Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism, specifically in apprehending a terrorist linked to the 2021 Kabul airport bombing. Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in fighting terrorism and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to U.S. partnership for regional peace. Trump praised this cooperation, linking it to a significant development for the families of the victims, while also criticizing the prior administration’s withdrawal strategy from Afghanistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his appreciation to U.S. President Donald Trump for acknowledging Pakistan’s contributions to the counter-terrorism efforts in Afghanistan. On his social media platform, he emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to collaborate closely with the United States to ensure regional peace and stability. His comments followed President Trump’s recognition of Pakistan’s role in apprehending a significant terrorist responsible for the 2021 Kabul airport bombing.
The attack, which signaled a tragic conclusion to America’s longest engagement in Afghanistan, resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians. The apprehended individual, identified as Shareefullah, an operational commander of Daesh, was confirmed to be an Afghan national caught during a successful operation near the Pakistan-Afghan border. Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s crucial role in counter-terrorism, stressing the nation’s sacrifices, including the loss of over 80,000 lives of soldiers and citizens.
Sharif’s commitment to combatting terrorism was resolute, stating that Pakistan’s leadership and citizens remained unwavering in their aim to eliminate this threat from their nation. Trump, during his address before Congress, praised the apprehension of the terrorist, emphasizing it as a significant victory for the families affected by the attack. He shared a personal connection with the families of the victims and criticized the withdrawal from Afghanistan, questioning the manner in which it was executed.
Reports indicate that the apprehension of the Daesh commander was facilitated by intelligence from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Known as Muhammad Sharifullah or Jafar, he is implicated in planning the Abbey Gate attack and is currently being transferred to the United States. U.S. officials assert that Sharifullah was the mastermind behind the bombing, which targeted those trying to escape Kabul as the Taliban regained power.
An indictment released in Virginia has charged Sharifullah with conspiring to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which led to multiple casualties. Interviews with the FBI revealed his recruitment into Daesh-K, an offshoot of Daesh, in 2016. The documents detail his actions in scouting potential attack routes and his communications with Daesh members prior to the bombing.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s acknowledgment of President Trump’s recognition marks a significant moment in U.S.-Pakistan relations concerning counter-terrorism efforts. The apprehension of terrorist Shareefullah underlines the cooperative efforts between the two nations. The tragic implications of the Kabul airport attack remind both governments of their continuous commitment to combat terrorism and secure regional stability.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
