Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistani authorities have apprehended a high-ranking Daesh militant believed to be responsible for the deadly 2021 Kabul airport bombing. The attack, which occurred at Abbey Gate during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians.
According to intelligence sources, the suspect, identified as Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, was a senior commander in Daesh’s Afghanistan-Pakistan faction. His capture follows extensive coordination between Pakistani security forces and international intelligence agencies.
Officials have confirmed that Sharifullah is currently undergoing legal proceedings and will soon be extradited to the United States, where he is expected to face charges. His arrest is considered a significant breakthrough in counterterrorism efforts, as he is believed to have played a key role in orchestrating the suicide bombing that shook Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport.
The capture has drawn praise from U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, who acknowledged Pakistan’s cooperation in bringing the suspect to justice. Speaking during his first address to Congress after beginning his second term, Trump described the arrest as a “major milestone” in efforts to hold those responsible for the attack accountable.
“This terrorist attack took the lives of brave American troops and countless innocent Afghans. Today, I am pleased to announce that we have captured the individual behind this heinous act,” Trump stated.
Security analysts believe that Sharifullah’s arrest could provide valuable intelligence on Daesh’s operations in the region, potentially leading to further crackdowns on the terrorist network. Experts also emphasize the importance of continued collaboration between Pakistan, the United States, and other allied nations to dismantle extremist threats.
Pakistani authorities have not disclosed specific details about the operation leading to his capture but reaffirmed their commitment to countering terrorism within their borders. The arrest is seen as a demonstration of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to combat militancy and strengthen global security.
Sharifullah is expected to arrive in the United States in the coming days, where he will likely face prosecution for his role in one of the deadliest attacks during the final days of the U.S. presence in Afghanistan.
