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J&K Democratic Party Chairperson Nabila Irshad Detained in Islamabad, Rawalpindi Home Raided

Advocate Nabila Irshad was reportedly taken from her Islamabad residence, while police raided the Rawalpindi home of vlogger and activist Azra Alam, according to family and local reports. Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Party Chairperson and lawyer Nabila Irshad was reportedly detained by police from her residence in Islamabad late last night, while security personnel also […]

One Killed in Shooting Amid Mixed Response to Joint Awami Action Committee Strike in Azad Kashmir

Markets reopened in major cities like Mirpur...

One Killed in Qallan Shooting as Shutdown Eases in Major Azad Kashmir Cities

While business districts reopened in Mirpur, Muzaffarabad...
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Arrest of Religious Scholars and Denial of Rights to Dam-Affected People Reflects Government’s Malice: Action Committee

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Arrest of Religious Scholars and Denial of Rights to Dam-Affected People Reflects Government’s Malice: Action Committee

Gilgit Baltistan: Ehsan Ali Advocate, Chairman of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan, has condemned the arrest of religious scholars and the government’s refusal to grant rights to those affected by the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, calling it a reflection of the government’s ill intentions.

In a statement, Ehsan Ali Advocate described the arrest of religious scholars in Baltistan as a shameful act. He paid tribute to the women and sisters of Baltistan for raising their voices in support of the scholars and staging sit-ins. He warned that if all scholars are not released immediately, protests will be called across Gilgit-Baltistan and throughout Pakistan.

Ehsan Ali Advocate highlighted that the people of Diamer have been staging sit-ins for the past three weeks to demand their rights. When a march from across Gilgit-Baltistan toward Diamer was announced, the government panicked and formed committees for negotiations. However, the demands of the Diamer residents have not been accepted, and attempts are being made to delay the process under the guise of talks, which exposes the ill intentions of the government and WAPDA.

“If the scholars of Diamer give the order, the entire Gilgit-Baltistan will march toward Diamer,” he said.

Concerns Over Sost Border Restrictions

Ehsan Ali Advocate also criticized the government for imposing further restrictions and difficulties on local traders at the Sost border, calling it a plan to completely displace traders and create unemployment among the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan. He stated that this is unacceptable.

“Our clear stance is that Gilgit-Baltistan is a tax-free zone, and this border belongs to Gilgit-Baltistan. We do not support imposing even a single rupee in taxes on local traders of Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said.

He assured that the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan, in consultation with all stakeholders, trader associations, and businessmen, will respond to this injustice with full public force.

Background

The ongoing protests in Diamer and the arrest of religious scholars have intensified tensions in the region. The Diamer-Bhasha Dam project has long been a source of contention, with local communities demanding fair compensation, employment opportunities, and the resolution of grievances. The government’s handling of the situation has drawn widespread criticism, with accusations of delaying tactics and insincerity in addressing the concerns of the affected people.

The situation at the Sost border, a vital trade route between Pakistan and China, has further exacerbated frustrations among local traders and residents, who see the new restrictions as an attack on their livelihoods.

The Gilgit Baltistan Awami Action Committee’s strong stance reflects the growing unrest in Gilgit-Baltistan, with calls for unity and resistance against perceived injustices.

(This report is based on local sources and statements from the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan.)

Protesters Seal WAPDA Offices, Halt Construction Work at Diamer-Bhasha Dam Site

The Azadi Times
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Protesters Seal WAPDA Offices, Halt Construction Work at Diamer-Bhasha Dam Site

GILGIT: Angry protesters affected by the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project have taken drastic action, sealing the offices of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in Chilas and Hasanat Company. They have also issued a warning to halt all construction work at the dam site starting today and threatened to stop WAPDA’s transportation operations.

The protesters, part of the “Rights of Two Dams Movement,” have been staging a sit-in for 19 days. Frustrated by the continuous delays in negotiations with the ministerial committee, they stormed the WAPDA office in Chilas under the leadership of Maulana Hazratullah, head of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam Committee. The protesters forced all employees out of the office and locked the main gate. They then marched to the Hasanat Company office, sealed it, and returned to the protest site chanting slogans.

The demonstrators demanded the immediate repatriation of all non-local employees and warned that if any non-local workers were found at WAPDA or other companies, the responsibility would lie with the employees and relevant authorities. They also raised strong slogans against WAPDA and the district administration.

Addressing the protesters, Maulana Hazratullah declared that WAPDA offices and construction company offices would remain closed until their 31-point demands were met. He warned that no work on the dam would be allowed without addressing their rights. “The patience of the people has run out. Anything can happen at any time. Until our demands are met, WAPDA offices will remain closed, and no vehicles will operate. If anyone attempts to resume work on the dam, WAPDA and the administration will be held responsible for any consequences,” he said.

He further stated that the WAPDA colony would also remain closed, and any movement or reopening of offices would lead to severe consequences. “This sea of people will not retreat until their rights are granted. The entire nation of Diamer, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kohistan is united. We will no longer tolerate oppression and injustice. How long will these oppressed people suffer under WAPDA’s cruel actions?”

The protesters demanded the immediate expulsion of all non-local employees from Grade 1 to 16 and the recruitment of local workers in the project. They also called for the regularization of temporary employees, issuance of notifications, and the immediate payment for 18,000 acres of land acquired for the project.

“The cup of patience has overflowed. The people have come out wearing shrouds and will not return home empty-handed,” Maulana Hazratullah added.

Background

The Diamer-Bhasha Dam, a major infrastructure project, has faced ongoing protests from local communities demanding fair compensation, employment opportunities, and the resolution of long-standing grievances. The latest escalation highlights the growing frustration among affected residents and their determination to secure their rights.

The situation remains tense as protesters vow to continue their agitation until their demands are met, raising concerns about the project’s timeline and the potential for further unrest.

(This report is based on local sources and eyewitness accounts.)

Pakistan Ranks Second in Global Terrorism Index for 2025

The Azadi Times
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Pakistan Ranks Second in Global Terrorism Index for 2025

Pakistan has risen to second place in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) for 2025, ranking among the countries most affected by terrorism. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is responsible for the majority of terrorist attacks and fatalities in the country.

The GTI, released by the Australia-based think tank Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), ranks 163 countries based on the impact of terrorism. According to the 2024 data, Pakistan moved from fourth to second place, with Burkina Faso topping the list, followed by Pakistan and Syria in third place.

Key Findings for Pakistan

  • In 2024, Pakistan witnessed 1,099 terrorist attacks, resulting in 1,081 fatalities—a 45% increase compared to the previous year.
  • The TTP was responsible for 52% of terrorism-related deaths in Pakistan, carrying out 482 attacks that killed 558 people.
  • The deadliest attack in 2024 was carried out by the Baloch separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which targeted a railway station in Quetta, killing at least 25 people, including civilians and military personnel.

Rising Threats from Baloch Militant Groups

The report highlights that the BLA and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) have intensified their activities, taking advantage of Pakistan’s instability. In 2024, these groups carried out 504 attacks, resulting in 388 deaths—a fourfold increase compared to 2023.

Impact of Afghanistan’s Taliban Government

Analysts note that the rise in terrorism in Pakistan is partly linked to the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP, an ally of the Afghan Taliban, has significantly increased its operations since then. The GTI report states that terrorism in Pakistan has surged fivefold since 2021, with the TTP being the primary driver of this increase.

Governance and Security Challenges

Security experts and analysts attribute Pakistan’s deteriorating security situation to governance issues and a lack of effective counter-terrorism strategies. Amir Rana, a security analyst and director of the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, emphasized that Pakistan faces serious governance challenges, which have exacerbated law and order issues.

Dr. Qamar Cheema, an international relations expert, highlighted that the interim Taliban government in Afghanistan has redirected several terrorist groups toward Pakistan, contributing to the rise in terrorism. He also noted the growing influence of ISIS-Khorasan in the region.

Global Terrorism Trends

  • Burkina Faso remains the most terrorism-affected country, with 1,532 deaths in 111 attacks in 2024.
  • Syria ranks third, facing ongoing instability following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s government by rebel groups.
  • Israel ranks eighth, with 108 attacks and 18 deaths in 2024, amid escalating violence following Hamas’s October 2023 attack.
  • Afghanistan ranks ninth, with 87 attacks and 113 deaths in 2024, primarily attributed to ISIS-Khorasan and Taliban opposition groups.

ISIS Emerges as the Most Dangerous Group

ISIS and its affiliates remain the most active terrorist organizations globally, responsible for 1,805 deaths across 22 countries in 2024. The report also notes a 11% increase in fatalities caused by four major terrorist groups: ISIS, Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), TTP, and al-Shabaab.

Conclusion

The GTI report underscores the urgent need for Pakistan to address its multifaceted security challenges through military, political, social, and economic measures. The rise in terrorism, driven by groups like the TTP and Baloch separatists, highlights the complex security landscape Pakistan faces.

As terrorism continues to evolve globally, with ISIS expanding its influence and attacks increasing in regions like the Middle East and Africa, international cooperation and robust counter-terrorism strategies remain critical to combating this growing threat.

(This report includes data from the Global Terrorism Index 2025 and insights from security analysts.)

Egypt Asserts Arab Nations Can Rebuild Gaza Within Five Years

The Azadi Times
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Egypt Asserts Arab Nations Can Rebuild Gaza Within Five Years

Dubai – The Azadi Times: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has affirmed that Arab nations possess the capability to complete the reconstruction of Gaza within five years. He emphasized that the agreements reached during the Arab summit represent a practical and achievable reality.

In an interview with Al Arabiya News, the Egyptian Foreign Minister stated that Cairo presented a viable alternative solution at the summit, as requested by the United States. The consensus reached during the Palestine-related discussions aims to address the dire situation in Gaza.

Abdelatty clarified that detailed plans for the reconstruction project will be discussed during visits to several capitals. He stressed that post-war administration in Gaza should be handed over to independent Palestinian figures. Additionally, he emphasized that a sustainable ceasefire is essential for the successful implementation of the reconstruction efforts.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister highlighted that the establishment of a Palestinian state is the only guarantee to prevent the recurrence of violence. He noted that U.S. President Donald Trump has also made it clear that he opposes violence and seeks peace.

Abdelatty revealed that the U.S. administration sought an alternative solution, and Arab leaders approved Egypt’s reconstruction plan for Gaza, making it an Arab-led initiative. He also disclosed that the head of the European Council praised the Gaza reconstruction plan and expressed active participation in the efforts.

Gaza Reconstruction Plan

Earlier, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi announced that the emergency Arab summit held in Cairo on Tuesday approved the Gaza reconstruction plan. Egypt had declared several weeks ago that it had prepared a detailed reconstruction plan for Gaza. Two days prior, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed during a press conference in Cairo that the plan was ready and would be presented for approval at the Arab summit.

Egypt proposed a five-year reconstruction plan for Gaza, estimated to cost $53 billion. The plan focuses on emergency aid, reconstruction, and long-term economic development. It outlines two phases of reconstruction and suggests the establishment of an internationally monitored fund to ensure transparency in financial matters.

Background

The announcement comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal for American control over Gaza, which sparked global outrage. Trump’s plan suggested forcibly relocating Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan and transforming Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East.”

Arab nations united in opposition to Trump’s proposal and presented an alternative solution, emphasizing the need for a Palestinian-led reconstruction effort. The Arab-backed plan aims to restore Gaza while ensuring the rights and sovereignty of its people.

The reconstruction of Gaza remains a critical step toward stability in the region, with Arab nations taking the lead to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for its residents.

Was ISIS Member Muhammad Sharif Jafar, Arrested in Pakistan, Really the Mastermind Behind the Kabul Airport Attack?

The Azadi Times
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Was ISIS Member Muhammad Sharif Jafar, Arrested in Pakistan, Really the Mastermind Behind the Kabul Airport Attack?

In his first address to Congress last Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that a “high-level terrorist responsible” for the 2021 attack on Kabul’s international airport had been captured in Pakistan.

Following this statement, U.S. media reported that Muhammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, was apprehended by Pakistani intelligence near the Afghan border after the CIA provided information about his whereabouts. Trump stated that Pakistan had handed over Sharif to the U.S., where he would face trial.

Almarsad has obtained information from its sources regarding the arrested individual. The details reveal that Muhammad Sharif was not the mastermind behind the Kabul attack.

According to sources, Muhammad Sharif was initially captured in 2019 but escaped from prison during the mass jailbreak on August 15. Before his arrest and after his release, Sharif was primarily involved in surveillance operations. However, after the Taliban’s takeover and the elimination of key ISIS leaders by the Islamic Emirate’s security forces, Sharif was forced into a more significant role within ISIS.

Who is Muhammad Sharif?

Almarsad sources indicate that Muhammad Sharif, or Jafar, joined ISIS after the group declared its self-proclaimed caliphate in Afghanistan. He was arrested by the former Kabul government in 2019 but was released in 2021. When the Islamic Emirate’s security forces eliminated ISIS leadership and key figures in 2022 and 2023, Sharif was left in the field and given responsibility for ISIS-Khorasan’s security operations. Due to intense surveillance and operations by Afghan security forces, he fled to Pakistan for safety.

Sharif was known within ISIS ranks by various names, including Engineer Sharif and Ajmal. Recently, while overseeing security, he led his subordinates through a Telegram account under the name Ishaqzai.

Who Were the Real Masterminds Behind the Kabul Airport Attack?

On April 9, 2023, Abdullah Kabuli, head of ISIS-Khorasan’s migrant affairs, was killed in an operation by the Islamic Emirate’s intelligence in Zaranj, Nimroz. Earlier, on April 5, 2023, Dr. Hussain, responsible for ISIS-Khorasan’s “martyrdom brigade,” was killed in Herat. Both were identified by the White House as key planners of the Kabul airport attack.

Why is Muhammad Sharif’s Role Being Exaggerated?

Both the Trump administration and Pakistan are exaggerating Sharif’s role in the Kabul attack to serve their respective agendas. Trump aims to weaken his political rivals and bolster his claim that the U.S. prioritizes the safety of its citizens, using Sharif’s arrest as evidence.

Meanwhile, Pakistan seeks to improve relations with the U.S. by aligning with Trump’s narrative, despite the fact that Sharif’s presence and arrest in Pakistan raise questions about the country’s role in harboring militants.

Almarsad reports that ISIS-Khorasan has shifted its sanctuaries to Pakistan, where it plans and executes its attacks, further complicating the region’s security dynamics.

Protest and Attempted Attack on Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar in London

The Azadi Times
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Protest and Attempted Attack on Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar in London

SRINAGAR: According to The Times of India, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar was harassed and faced an attempted attack in London on Thursday as he was leaving an event at the Chatham House think tank.

A video circulating on social media shows a person running towards Jaishankar’s car and tearing the Indian national flag in front of London police officers.

India Today reported that as Jaishankar departed after a discussion at Chatham House, a man rushed towards his car. The video, now widely shared on social media, shows the individual angrily approaching the Foreign Minister’s convoy while the police initially hesitated to intervene.

Protesters were seen tearing the Indian tricolor and chanting slogans, though the police eventually stepped in and arrested the individual along with others.

Another video shows protesters outside the venue where Jaishankar was speaking, waving flags and chanting slogans in support of Khalistan.

This incident occurred during Jaishankar’s official visit to the UK from March 4 to March 9, where he was scheduled to meet British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and other senior officials.

Following his engagements in the UK, Jaishankar is set to visit Ireland from March 6 to March 7. There, he will meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris, interact with other officials, and engage with the Indian community.

Saudi Authorities Begin Accepting Online Applications for I’tikaf at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi

The Azadi Times
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Saudi Authorities Begin Accepting Online Applications for I’tikaf at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi

MUZAFFARABAD: Saudi authorities have started accepting online applications for I’tikaf (spiritual retreat) at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah.

According to Arab News, the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has urged those wishing to perform I’tikaf to select their preferred mosque, submit their applications, watch an informational video about the service, and review the necessary conditions. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and either Saudi citizens or legal residents of the Kingdom.

Permits for I’tikaf are issued free of charge, and registration applications can be submitted at eserv.wmn.gov.sa.

I’tikaf is a spiritual practice observed during the last 10 days of Ramadan, where individuals seclude themselves in the mosque to devote their time entirely to worship. This year, I’tikaf will begin on the 20th of Ramadan and continue until the Isha prayer on the night of Eid al-Fitr.

What Weapons Has the U.S. Provided to Ukraine?

The Azadi Times
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What Weapons Has the U.S. Provided to Ukraine?

U.S. Halts Military Aid to Ukraine After Providing $66 Billion Since Russian Invasion

Web Desk — The United States has provided Ukraine with approximately $66 billion in military aid since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. However, this assistance has come to a halt following orders from President Donald Trump, who assumed office earlier this year.

The aid to Ukraine was approved under former President Joe Biden and was described by the U.S. State Department as a reflection of America’s “unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” However, President Trump’s differing perspective on the conflict has led to a shift in U.S. policy.

Here is a brief overview of the military aid provided by the U.S. to Kyiv over the past three years, based on a list released by the State Department on January 20, 2025.

Air Defense

From the outset of the war, Russia launched relentless and indiscriminate air attacks on Ukraine. To counter this, the U.S. bolstered Ukraine’s air defense systems by supplying advanced and effective equipment, including Patriot missile systems. European nations also provided similar systems.

The U.S. delivered 12 NASAMS and HAWK air defense systems, along with ammunition, and over 3,000 Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. Additionally, 21 radars were provided to enhance the effectiveness of these systems, enabling integration with Western launchers.

Missiles and Ammunition

The U.S. supplied Ukraine with more than 200 155mm howitzers and 3 million rounds of ammunition, 72 105mm howitzers with 1 million rounds, and 700,000 mortar shells. The aid also included 40 HIMARS rocket launchers and their ammunition.

Washington provided over 10,000 Javelin anti-tank missiles, which became a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance in the early weeks of the war. The aid package also included 120,000 anti-vehicle weapons and 10,000 TOW anti-tank missiles.

Furthermore, the U.S. delivered 500 million rounds of small arms ammunition and hand grenades to Ukrainian forces.

Tanks and Helicopters

While the Pentagon ruled out deploying its own combat aircraft in the conflict, the Biden administration provided Ukraine with 20 Soviet-designed MI-17 helicopters and several advanced drones. After prolonged delays, the U.S. began delivering 31 Abrams tanks, America’s most advanced heavy tanks, in January 2023, along with 45 Soviet-designed T-72B tanks.

The State Department’s list also includes 300 Bradley fighting vehicles, 1,300 armored vehicles, 5,000 Humvees, and 300 armored ambulances.

Additional Support

The U.S. provided over 100 surveillance vessels, coastal defense systems, mine-clearing equipment, satellite communication systems, night-vision goggles, and more than 100,000 body armor units for Ukrainian troops.

Post-January 20

All the details above are based on information provided up to the final hours of the Biden administration. Since President Trump took office, a U.S. official stated that America is only supplying “essential ammunition” approved by the previous administration, including anti-tank weapons and artillery shells.

(This report includes information from AFP.)

U.S. Department of Justice Charges 12 Chinese Nationals in Cyber Espionage Campaign

The Azadi Times
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U.S. Department of Justice Charges 12 Chinese Nationals in Cyber Espionage Campaign

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced charges against 12 Chinese citizens for allegedly orchestrating cyber espionage campaigns targeting U.S. government agencies, universities, media outlets, and Chinese dissidents. Among the accused are law enforcement officers and employees of a private hacking company, highlighting the involvement of both state and non-state actors in these operations.

The charges come at a time when the U.S. government has been warning about advanced cyber threats emanating from China, including the hacking of telecom companies. One notable example is the “Salt Typhoon” attack from last year, which compromised private text messages and phone conversations of several U.S. government officials and prominent public figures.

The indicted individuals include leaders and founders of the hacking company iSoon, a group allegedly involved in extensive cyber espionage activities. Among them is Wu Huabo, a Shanghai-based hacker and former member of China’s first hacktivist group, Green Army. Hacktivists are individuals who use hacking to promote political or social change.

According to the indictment, iSoon targeted a wide range of entities, including Chinese dissidents, religious organizations, and U.S.-based media outlets critical of the Chinese Communist Party. The group also allegedly focused on defense intelligence agencies, research universities, and critics of China residing in the U.S.

Leaked documents cited by the Associated Press (AP) reveal that iSoon also targeted governments in India, Taiwan, and Mongolia, indicating the global scope of its operations.

In response to the charges, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, dismissed the allegations as “ridiculous” and called on the relevant parties to present concrete evidence rather than basing accusations on speculation.

This case underscores the growing tensions between the U.S. and China over cybersecurity issues. The DOJ’s actions reflect ongoing efforts to hold foreign actors accountable for cyberattacks that threaten U.S. national security and privacy.

Key Points:

  • 12 Chinese nationals charged with cyber espionage targeting U.S. entities.
  • Accused include employees of hacking company iSoon and law enforcement officers.
  • Targets included dissidents, media outlets, defense agencies, and universities.
  • Alleged operations linked to the “Salt Typhoon” attack on U.S. telecom systems.
  • China dismisses allegations, demanding evidence over speculation.

(This report includes information from the Associated Press.)

President Trump Expresses Gratitude; How Pakistan Captured a Terrorist Wanted by the U.S.

The Azadi Times
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President Trump Expresses Gratitude; How Pakistan Captured a Terrorist Wanted by the U.S.

MUZAFFARABAD: U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for its assistance in capturing one of the alleged masterminds behind the August 2021 suicide bombing at Kabul Airport’s Abbey Gate, which killed 13 U.S. service members and over 150 others during the chaotic withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan.

During a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night, President Trump announced that the “terrorist” responsible for the Kabul Airport attack was being brought to the United States to face justice. The bombing, carried out by ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), occurred on August 26, 2021, as thousands of Afghans crowded the airport in a desperate attempt to flee the country following the Taliban’s takeover.

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and Department of Justice (DOJ) collaborated to locate and apprehend the suspect, identified as Sharifullah, also known as “Jaafar.” According to senior Pakistani officials, Sharifullah, a resident of Kabul, was involved in planning the attack.

Pakistani security forces had been tracking Sharifullah for some time. Acting on intelligence provided by the U.S., Pakistani authorities arrested him in a border security operation near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The suspect was later handed over to U.S. officials after completing necessary legal procedures.

In a statement, the U.S. Department of Justice confirmed that Sharifullah is a senior ISIS-K operative responsible for coordinating attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan. During interrogation, Sharifullah admitted to facilitating the suicide bomber’s access to Abbey Gate, including helping him bypass U.S. and Taliban checkpoints.

If convicted, Sharifullah could face life imprisonment. The DOJ also revealed that he has claimed responsibility for other attacks, including a March 2024 bombing in Moscow, Russia, and several operations in Iran.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the arrest, stating that Sharifullah was apprehended during a successful counter-terrorism operation in the border region. In a social media post, PM Sharif thanked President Trump for acknowledging Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism in the region.

Shahbaz Sharif Tweet

According to U.S. news outlet Axios, President Trump had directed CIA Director John Ratcliffe to prioritize capturing those involved in the Kabul Airport attack. Ratcliffe reportedly communicated with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Lieutenant General Asim Munir to coordinate efforts.

The arrest marks a significant step in delivering justice to the victims of the Kabul Airport attack and their families. It also highlights the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and Pakistan in counter-terrorism efforts, despite occasional tensions in their bilateral relationship.

The Kabul Airport bombing remains a painful chapter in the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the capture of Sharifullah is seen as a critical development in holding those responsible accountable.

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