The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has acknowledged Pakistan as a key partner in counterterrorism efforts, highlighting its role in regional operations against Daesh and related militant networks.
Pakistan Called a “Critical Counterterrorism Partner”
In testimony before a US Senate committee, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper described Pakistan as a “critical counterterrorism partner” in the fight against Daesh. He said cooperation between the two militaries has produced tangible operational outcomes, including action against high-value targets linked to attacks on US personnel.
He emphasised that Pakistan’s position and engagement make it central to ongoing regional counterterrorism efforts.
Operational Cooperation and High-Value Arrests
The CENTCOM chief pointed to recent joint efforts that led to the arrest of Daesh operative Mohammad Sharifullah in 2025. The arrest was previously cited by US officials as an important example of intelligence-sharing and coordination between Islamabad and Washington.
Former CENTCOM leadership had also credited Pakistan with extraditing individuals linked to major terrorist incidents, including those connected to the 2021 Kabul airport attack.
Disruption of Militant Networks
According to CENTCOM, continued cooperation has helped disrupt militant networks operating across the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. The command stated that joint actions have targeted individuals considered responsible for attacks on US forces and civilians.
Officials said the partnership has contributed to weakening operational capabilities of extremist groups in the region.
Humanitarian Coordination Also Highlighted
Beyond security cooperation, CENTCOM also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in humanitarian response efforts. It noted that coordination between the two sides played a part in facilitating US assistance during severe flooding in Pakistan in recent years.
This aspect of cooperation was presented as part of broader bilateral engagement beyond military operations.
Sign of Enduring Military-to-Military Ties
CENTCOM described the relationship as an “enduring friendship and shared resolve,” reflecting both security collaboration and humanitarian coordination between the two countries.
The statement comes amid ongoing regional instability, where counterterrorism cooperation remains a key element of US-Pakistan relations, particularly in relation to militant threats operating in and around Afghanistan.
