The United States has expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its role in the arrest of ISIS terrorist Sharifullah - who was involved in the deadly Kabul airport bombing.
During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce credited Pakistan for facilitating the arrest, terming it a testament to the collaborative counter-terrorism efforts between Washington and Islamabad.
"Pakistan is our ally in the fight against terrorism, and our partnership remains crucial in eliminating global threats," Bruce stated.
The development was also acknowledged by US National Security Advisor Michael Walter, who praised Pakistan’s cooperation in counter-terrorism measures.
Spox avoids discussion on Khan’s detention
However, the press briefing also witnessed a moment of contention when a Pakistani-origin journalist, presumably Jalil Afridi, questioned Bruce regarding the release of former prime minister Imran Khan.
The spokesperson sidestepped the query, choosing instead to reiterate the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation against terrorism.
"Pakistan and the US have the same interest in the war on terrorism, and the arrest of this terrorist (Sharifullah) is a great opportunity for us to bring him to justice," Bruce stated. She added that Sharifullah, who is accused of orchestrating the attack that killed 13 US soldiers, has been transferred to the US for legal proceedings. "We thank Pakistan for its assistance in ensuring his capture," she said.
Bruce further stressed that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remains committed to advancing President Donald Trump’s foreign policy under the "America First" doctrine, prioritising security and national interest.
Who is Muhammad Sharifullah? Mastermind of 2021 Kabul Airport bombing
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the arrest of Muhammad Sharifullah the alleged planner behind the 2021 Kabul airport bombing that resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians. The operation, conducted with assistance from Pakistan, has led to Sharifullah being transferred to the United States to face justice.
President Trump expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for its pivotal role in the arrest, stating, "I want to thank, especially, the Pakistani government for helping arrest this monster."
The apprehension of Sharifullah, a senior member of ISIS-K, marks a significant step in counter-terrorism efforts and brings a measure of solace to the families affected by the tragic attack.
U.S. President Donald Trump, without naming the suspect, expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its role in the arrest of a key terrorist linked to the Kabul airport bombing.
In his address to Congress, President Trump stated that ISIS was responsible for the killing of 13 American service members in Afghanistan three and a half years ago. He criticized the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan under the Biden administration, calling it a shameful event.
Trump further announced that a major terrorist responsible for the attack had been captured and was being brought to the U.S. to face justice.
He specifically thanked Pakistan for its assistance in the arrest.
2021 Kabul airport bombing
The 2021 Kabul airport bombing, which took place during the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces, resulted in the deaths of 13 American troops and 170 Afghan civilians as thousands gathered at the airport seeking evacuation.
According to media reports, President Trump instructed CIA Director John Ratcliffe to prioritize the capture of those responsible for the attack immediately after assuming office.
Later high-level intelligence discussions with Pakistani officials, including meetings at the Munich Security Conference in February. The reports claimed that US FBI Director also engaged in discussions with Pakistani authorities regarding the matter.
As per media reports, claim that Muhammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, was one of the key ISIS leaders behind the attack.
A U.S. official described him as the mastermind of the bombing. Reports further suggest that Pakistani authorities informed U.S. officials about his capture 10 days prior to the public announcement.
