US commends Pakistan’s role in disrupting Daesh-linked networks

The United States Central Command (Centcom) has commended Pakistan for its continued cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, calling Islamabad an important partner in the fight against Daesh. During a briefing to a US Senate committee, Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper said that close military-to-military ties between Washington and Islamabad have produced measurable operational outcomes, including actions targeting individuals involved in attacks on US forces. He stated that Pakistan “is a critical counterterrorism partner that plays a central role in countering Daesh in the region.” He acknowledged Pakistan’s involvement in the detention of Daesh operative Mohammad Sharifullah, who was arrested earlier in 2025. He also referenced remarks by former Centcom chief General Michael Kurilla in June 2025, who said Pakistan had extradited “Jaffar,” identified as a key figure linked to the Abbey Gate bombing. According to Centcom, ongoing cooperation has significantly helped disrupt militant networks operating in the Afghanistan–Pakistan region. It added that joint efforts have led to action against high-value individuals responsible for attacks on American personnel, stating that the partnership has delivered “tangible results.” The command also highlighted Islamabad’s contribution during natural disasters, noting that coordination between the two sides played an important role in facilitating US humanitarian assistance after devastating floods in Pakistan last September. Centcom described the combined security and humanitarian collaboration as a reflection of an “enduring friendship and shared resolve” between the two countries. The Daesh operative mentioned in this context is alleged to have been involved in the 2021 suicide bombing outside Kabul airport during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Drone strike sparks fire near UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant