ISLAMABAD: US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla has hailed Pakistan as a vital partner in the international counterterrorism campaign.
Speaking before the US Senate Armed Services Committee, General Kurilla acknowledged Pakistan’s strategic importance in combating terrorism, particularly in operations targeting ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K).
Pakistan’s Intelligence Cooperation Recognized
General Kurilla noted Pakistan’s constructive and proactive role in sharing intelligence and conducting high-impact operations.
He credited Pakistan’s efforts in capturing and transferring multiple ISIS-K operatives, including key leadership figures.
A major highlight was the apprehension of Jaafar—the mastermind behind the Abbey Gate bombing—facilitated by Pakistan’s intelligence apparatus.
Kurilla revealed that Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, personally informed US officials following the arrest.
Active Operations Amid Rising Threats
According to General Kurilla, ISIS-K remains active in the region, especially near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
Despite the threats, Pakistan continues to carry out precise and effective counterterrorism operations with limited but strategic intelligence support.
He reported over 1,000 terrorist incidents in western Pakistan since early 2024, leading to approximately 700 fatalities and 2,500 injuries among civilians and security forces.
These numbers underline Pakistan’s ongoing, high-stakes campaign against terrorism.
Kurilla emphasized that the group has suffered significant losses recently, weakening its capabilities.
He also reaffirmed the importance of maintaining strong relations with both Pakistan and India, clarifying that it is not a zero-sum scenario for US diplomacy.
