Michael Kurilla Praises Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The US-Pakistan partnership is set to deepen, with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation and mutual interests, as both countries work together to address the evolving threat landscape in the region.
US Centcom commander Army General Michael Kurilla has commended Pakistan as a "phenomenal partner in the world of counter-terrorism", acknowledging the nation's significant contributions in combating terrorism, particularly in Balochistan and against groups like the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K).
The US and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation, with a dialogue held in Washington on May 10 and another meeting scheduled for this month. Gen Kurilla highlighted Pakistan's notable achievements, including the apprehension of high-value IS-K operatives such as Mohammad Sharifullah, an Afghan national arrested earlier this year. He also recognized Pakistan's crucial role in the counter-terrorism fight, with the country having faced over 1,000 terrorist attacks in its western region since 2024.
Gen Kurilla emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with both Pakistan and India, stressing that the US should focus on the positive aspects of these relationships. The US has expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Pakistan across various sectors, including counter-terrorism, and has praised Pakistan's efforts in combating terrorism. The US has also invited Pakistan's new army chief, Asim Munir, to visit the country, underscoring Pakistan's significance as a "phenomenal partner" in the fight against terrorism.
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin particularly praised the Pakistan Army for arresting senior ISIS-K commander Mohammed Sharifullah, who was involved in a 2021 suicide bombing at the Kabul airport that killed 13 US soldiers and 169 Afghan civilians. This acknowledgement highlights the value of Pakistan's contributions to regional and global counter-terrorism efforts.
The strengthening of US-Pakistan cooperation on counter-terrorism is expected to have a positive impact on regional security, and Gen Kurilla's praise for Pakistan's efforts reflects the growing recognition of the country's importance in the global fight against terrorism.