US Centcom thanks Pakistan for helping arrest Sharifullah
1. “We are grateful to Pakistan for its cooperation in arrest of Sharifullah," says Washington's military command
USCENTCOM Thanks Pakistan for Key Role in Arrest of Kabul Airport Attack Suspect
KARACHI: The United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) has expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its cooperation in the arrest of Mohammad Sharifullah, the primary suspect in the 2021 attack on Kabul Airport’s Abbey Gate, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to combating terrorism.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, USCENTCOM’s Urdu-language handle acknowledged Pakistan’s assistance in capturing Sharifullah, stating, “We are grateful to Pakistan for its cooperation in the arrest of Sharifullah, the main suspect in the attack on the Abbey Gate of Kabul Airport in Afghanistan, and for its cooperation with the United States in bringing the suspect to justice.”
The post also referenced US President Donald Trump’s earlier announcement of the suspect’s arrest during his address to a joint session of Congress.
USCENTCOM further emphasized the strong counterterrorism partnership between the two nations, stating that “Pakistan and the United States have a common interest in the war on terrorism.” The command, responsible for US military operations across the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia, has long collaborated with Pakistan on regional security matters.
Background on the Arrest
On Tuesday, March 4, President Trump revealed in his congressional address that the US had apprehended a “top terrorist” linked to the 2021 bombing at Kabul Airport’s Abbey Gate. The attack had killed 13 US service members and at least 170 Afghan civilians.
Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, is a senior member of ISIS-K and was allegedly involved in planning the deadly bombing. He has been charged with providing and conspiring to provide material support for terrorism.
International Recognition of Pakistan’s Role
Pakistan’s assistance in this high-profile arrest has been acknowledged by multiple US officials. During a press briefing on Thursday, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce extended appreciation to Pakistan, stating, “We extend our gratitude to the government of Pakistan for their partnership in bringing Mohammad Sharifullah to justice.”
She further emphasized that US-Pakistan counterterrorism cooperation remains “vitally important” in tackling global threats.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also highlighted Pakistan’s role in Sharifullah’s arrest, reinforcing the significance of continued collaboration between the two nations in combating terrorism.
