Kabul Airport Attack Mastermind, An Afghan National, Arrested At Border, Says Pakistan PM

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has confirmed that the mastermind behind the attack on Kabul Airport is an Afghan national who was apprehended during an operation at the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

Expressing gratitude to Donald Trump, Sharif emphasised Islamabad’s continued cooperation with Washington in combating terrorism and maintaining regional security.

On Wednesday, 5 March, in his first address at a joint session of the U.S. Congress, former President Donald Trump announced that, in collaboration with Pakistan, the mastermind of the deadly Kabul Airport attack had been captured. The incident, which claimed the lives of 13 American soldiers and over 170 Afghan citizens, has now led to the suspect’s extradition to the United States for trial.

In a note posted on X, Sharif stated: “We thank US President Donald Trump for acknowledging and appreciating Pakistan’s role and support in counter-terrorism efforts across the region, in the context of Pakistan Security Forces’ recent apprehension of ISKP’s top-tier operational commander Shareefullah, an Afghan national.”

Sharif also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the threat of terrorism, adding, “We will continue to partner closely with the United States in securing regional peace and stability.”

The Associated Press, citing the White House, has identified the senior ISIS-K member as Mohammad Sharifullah. Similarly, Axios, quoting U.S. sources, reported that the individual, also known as “Jafar”, was responsible for planning and coordinating the attack at Abbey Gate – the entrance to Kabul Airport. Axios further noted that Sharifullah is expected to arrive in the United States on Wednesday, where his court hearing will be held publicly.