President Trump commended Pakistan for its assistance in apprehending the mastermind of the Kabul Airport attack during a Congressional address. This marked a surprising acknowledgment of Pakistan’s role in U.S. counter-terrorism efforts, following high-level contacts between the two nations. The collaboration led to the successful capture of Muhammad Shareefullah by Pakistani intelligence, strengthening bilateral relations.
On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump expressed gratitude toward Pakistan for its role in capturing the alleged mastermind behind the August 2021 Kabul Airport attack, which resulted in the deaths of 13 American servicemen and 170 others. He announced, “Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have just apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity, and he is right now on his way here to face the swift sword of American justice.” This unexpected acknowledgment highlighted Pakistan’s relevance in U.S. foreign policy.
Prior to Trump’s speech, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar communicated with U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who conveyed Trump’s appreciation to the Pakistani government for its counter-terrorism efforts. The Foreign Office released a statement confirming Dar’s acknowledgment of Waltz’s new role and the intention to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including counter-terrorism, IT, energy, and minerals.
This marked the initial high-level interaction between Pakistan and the U.S. since Trump’s inauguration, although intelligence agencies had maintained contact. Trump’s directive to CIA Director John Ratcliffe highlighted the importance of bringing those responsible for the Abbey Gate attack to justice, leading to a collaboration with Pakistan’s ISI Chief.
The CIA had tracked Muhammad Shareefullah, also known as Jaffer, for a considerable time before gathering actionable intelligence on his location, which resulted in his capture near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border by Pakistani forces. Authorities in Pakistan deliberated whether to announce the arrest or defer to the U.S., ultimately choosing the latter, believing the U.S. would likely make the announcement.
The unveiling of the operation took place during Trump’s address to Congress, wherein he publicly credited Pakistan for its assistance, a move that took many by surprise. This unexpected praise bolstered relations between the two countries amidst earlier unease regarding Trump’s presidency, particularly for Pakistan as it approached a pivotal point in its bilateral engagement with the U.S.
President Trump’s commendation of Pakistan for its role in apprehending a major terrorist underscores a significant development in U.S.-Pakistan relations. The collaboration between intelligence agencies facilitated the capture of Muhammad Shareefullah, which exemplifies the ongoing partnership in counter-terrorism efforts. Trump’s publicly acknowledging of Pakistan not only boosts the country’s standing but also indicates a broader commitment to future cooperation across multiple sectors.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
