In a significant 12-hour window, three high-level engagements underscored renewed momentum in U.S.-Pakistan relations. President Donald Trump publicly praised Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to express gratitude for the recognition.
Additionally, U.S. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz called Deputy PM Ishaq Dar to reinforce diplomatic ties. These developments signal a strengthening partnership, with both nations reaffirming cooperation in security, trade, and strategic collaboration.
Trump Praises Pakistan’s Efforts in Counterterrorism Operation
U.S. President Donald Trump commended Pakistan’s intelligence agencies for their role in capturing senior Daesh commander Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar. Speaking before Congress, Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s cooperation in the operation and expressed gratitude for its counterterrorism efforts.
Sharifullah, the mastermind behind the 2021 Kabul airport attack that killed 13 U.S. soldiers and 170 Afghan civilians, was apprehended near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in a special operation following a lead from U.S. intelligence. His arrest is seen as a major victory against Daesh and a critical step in combating terrorism. Trump highlighted the importance of such collaboration, emphasizing the strengthening counterterrorism partnership between the two nations.
PM Shehbaz Thanked President Trump
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded by thanking Trump for recognizing Pakistan’s role in the operation. “We appreciate the acknowledgment and remain committed to working closely with the U.S. to ensure regional peace and stability,” he stated on social media platform X.
Despite this success, Pakistan’s strategic role has diminished since the U.S. and NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan, as cross-border violence has surged. Tensions between Islamabad and Kabul remain high, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harboring militants responsible for attacks within its territory.
U.S. National Security Adviser Calls Ishaq Dar, Praises Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Efforts
The Foreign Office confirmed that U.S. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz called Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on March 4 to convey President Donald Trump’s appreciation for Pakistan’s role in counterterrorism. The call followed Trump’s announcement that a key Daesh operative behind the 2021 Kabul airport attack had been arrested with Pakistan’s assistance.
During the call, Dar congratulated Waltz on his new role and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with the U.S. under Trump’s administration. He also welcomed Trump’s decision to withdraw U.S. military equipment left in Afghanistan. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in IT, energy, and minerals while continuing dialogue on trade, investment, climate change, and health.