General Michael Erik Kurilla, the head of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), has described Pakistan as a crucial partner in global counterterrorism operations. While speaking before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, General Kurilla highlighted Pakistan’s active role in combating terrorist threats, especially from ISIS-Khorasan, one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations currently operating worldwide.
He credited Pakistan’s intelligence cooperation with the U.S. for playing a key role in eliminating and apprehending numerous ISIS-K operatives, including five high-profile leaders. Among the notable successes, he cited the capture and extradition of Jafar, the mastermind behind the deadly Abbey Gate bombing, which was made possible due to intelligence shared by Pakistan. General Kurilla also noted that Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, personally informed U.S. officials of Jafar’s arrest.
He emphasized that although the intelligence collaboration is limited, it remains highly effective, with Pakistan continuing targeted operations against ISIS-K, especially along the volatile Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
General Kurilla revealed that Pakistan’s western areas have seen over 1,000 terrorist incidents so far in 2024, leading to approximately 700 deaths and 2,500 injuries, affecting both civilians and security forces. Despite these challenges, Pakistan remains firmly engaged in its counterterrorism mission.
He also stated that ISIS-K has suffered severe losses recently, weakening its operational capacity significantly. Wrapping up his remarks, General Kurilla underlined the importance of maintaining balanced U.S. diplomatic relations with both Pakistan and India, asserting that cooperation with one nation does not necessitate distancing from the other.
