WASHINGTON: US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla has recognized Pakistan as a vital player in the global war on terror, calling it an “exceptional counterterrorism partner” during his address to the US Senate Armed Services Committee.
General Kurilla emphasized Pakistan’s key role in countering ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), one of the most dangerous and active terrorist groups globally. He noted that Pakistan’s intelligence cooperation has been instrumental in neutralizing dozens of ISIS-K operatives, including five high-ranking leaders.
Among the notable successes, General Kurilla highlighted the capture of Jaafar, the mastermind behind the deadly Abbey Gate bombing during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. He confirmed that this breakthrough was made possible through close collaboration with Pakistani authorities. Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reportedly informed US officials of the arrest shortly after it occurred.
Kurilla pointed out that despite limited resources, Pakistan continues to carry out effective operations against ISIS-K along the volatile Pakistan-Afghanistan border. “Pakistan remains central to our regional counterterrorism efforts,” he said, adding that the partnership is essential to maintaining regional and global stability.
According to the CENTCOM chief, over 1,000 terrorist incidents have been recorded in western Pakistan since January 2024, resulting in nearly 700 deaths and more than 2,500 injuries, affecting both civilians and security personnel. He acknowledged that Pakistan is engaged in an active and intense campaign to curb terrorism.
Kurilla also noted that ISIS-K has suffered significant setbacks in recent months, attributing much of this progress to Pakistan’s efforts on the ground and its intelligence support.
Stressing the strategic value of maintaining ties with both South Asian nuclear powers, he remarked, “Having a relationship with India does not mean we can’t engage with Pakistan.” He emphasized that both nations are important to US interests and that collaboration with Pakistan remains vital in the shared goal of combating global terrorism.
