Trump’s Acknowledgment of Pakistan’s Role in Apprehending Terrorist
President Trump praised Pakistan during his Congressional address for its assistance in capturing Muhammad Shareefullah, the mastermind behind the Kabul Airport attack. This marked a significant acknowledgment of Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism, leading to strengthened bilateral relations as both nations seek to enhance collaboration across various sectors.
On a recent evening, President Donald Trump expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for its assistance in apprehending Muhammad Shareefullah, the alleged mastermind behind the August 2021 Kabul Airport attack, which resulted in the deaths of 13 American servicemen and many others. “Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have just apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity,” he stated while addressing Congress, adding special thanks to Pakistan for their cooperation.
Prior to Trump’s speech, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received a call from US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who conveyed Trump’s appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism. The Foreign Office’s statement highlighted that Pakistan aims to strengthen its longstanding relationship with the United States, seeking continued collaboration on counter-terrorism efforts and acknowledging the president’s recent announcement regarding military equipment left in Afghanistan.
Both nations expressed a mutual intent to enhance cooperation in various sectors including IT, energy, and minerals, amid discussions on trade, investment, climate change, and health. This conversation marks the first high-level engagement between Pakistan and the US since Trump’s inauguration, although intelligence officials from both countries had interacted prior.
Trump directed CIA Director John Ratcliffe to ensure accountability for the perpetrators of the Abbey Gate attack. Upon Ratcliffe’s appointment, he reached out to the head of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, seeking assistance in apprehending Jaffer. Reports indicated that the CIA had been tracking Shareefullah, leading to successful collaboration with Pakistani intelligence forces, who captured him near the border.
Following the arrest, Pakistani authorities deliberated whether to announce the capture themselves or defer to the US. Ultimately, they informed the Trump administration, expecting the news to be announced from the White House. To their surprise, Trump credited Pakistan in his Congressional address. A senior official noted that Trump independently acknowledged Pakistan’s contribution, recognizing it as significant, a move that alleviated concerns in Islamabad regarding Trump’s administration in his second term.
In summary, President Trump publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s vital role in capturing a key terrorist responsible for a tragic attack. This recognition aligns with both nations’ goals to enhance cooperation against terrorism and build stronger bilateral ties. Trump’s praise marked a surprising turn in US-Pakistan relations, alleviating anxieties regarding future collaborations between the two countries under his administration.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
