US-Pakistan cooperation on counter-terrorism remains crucial: State Dept - Faith & Freedom News

Washington, D.C. – March 7, 2025 – In a major victory for counterterrorism efforts, President Donald Trump has commended Pakistan for its critical role in the capture and extradition of Daesh-K terrorist Mohammad Sharifullah, who was involved in the deadly 2021 Kabul airport bombing.

United States-Pakistan cooperation on counter-terrorism remains crucial, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Thursday after Daesh-K terrorist Sharifullah’s arrest.

During a press briefing at the State Department on Thursday, spokesperson Tammy Bruce reaffirmed the strong US-Pakistan partnership in combatting terrorism. “We extend our gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for their partnership in bringing Mohammad Sharifullah to justice,” Bruce stated. She emphasized that this arrest underscores the ongoing importance of US-Pakistan counterterrorism cooperation.

Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, was detained by Pakistani authorities before being extradited to the United States. According to the Justice Department, he was directly linked to the August 2021 suicide bombing at Kabul’s Abbey Gate, which killed 170 Afghan civilians and 13 US troops during the chaotic withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan.

Court documents reveal that Sharifullah confessed to his role in scouting the attack location and later recognized the bomber as a fellow Daesh-K operative. He is now facing charges of providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization resulting in death. He appeared in a US court in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday, with another hearing scheduled for Monday.

President Trump announced Sharifullah’s arrest during an address to Congress on Tuesday, calling him “the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity.” He lauded Pakistani authorities for their cooperation and reaffirmed America’s commitment to bringing terrorists to justice.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged Trump’s recognition of the country’s role in counterterrorism efforts. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated that Pakistan remains committed to working closely with the United States in eliminating terrorist threats.

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt revealed that the Trump administration provided critical intelligence to Pakistani authorities, which helped secure Sharifullah’s confession. “President Trump brought justice to the families of thirteen American heroes,” Leavitt said, underscoring the significance of the arrest.

The successful operation highlights the growing trust and cooperation between the United States and Pakistan in fighting terrorism and ensuring regional stability.