US Centcom chief hails Pakistan for cooperation in counterterrorism operations

WASHINGTON: The United States Central Command has praised Pakistan for its cooperation in counterterrorism operations, describing Islamabad as a “critical counterterrorism partner” in the regional fight against Daesh.

In a briefing to a US Senate committee, Centcom chief Brad Cooper said the strong military-to-military relationship between the United States and Pakistan had led to tangible operational results, including actions against high-value targets linked to attacks on American personnel.

“Pakistan, especially, is a critical CT partner that is central to the fight against Daesh in the region,” he said.

Centcom highlighted Pakistan’s role in the arrest of Daesh operative Mohammad Sharifullah earlier in 2025.

Former Centcom chief Michael Kurilla had stated in June 2025 that Pakistan extradited Jaffar, described as one of the key individuals involved in the Abbey Gate bombing during the 2021 US withdrawal from Afghanistan.

According to Centcom, cooperation between Islamabad and Washington has played a major role in disrupting militant networks operating across the Afghanistan-Pakistan region.

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“Our strong military-to-military partnership with Islamabad has produced tangible results against high-value individuals with American blood on their hands,” the command stated.

Centcom also acknowledged Pakistan’s support in humanitarian operations, saying bilateral coordination was instrumental in facilitating US assistance after devastating floods in Pakistan last September.

The US command described the security and humanitarian cooperation as evidence of an “enduring friendship and shared resolve” between the two countries.

The Daesh operative referenced in the briefing was allegedly involved in the 2021 suicide bombing outside Kabul airport during the chaotic US military withdrawal from Afghanistan.