WASHINGTON: The United States has formally declared Pakistan a key partner in its ongoing efforts against global terrorism, with a top military commander briefing the Senate on the tangible results achieved through bilateral military cooperation.
Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), testified before a Senate committee that the strong military partnership with Islamabad has yielded significant successes against terrorist networks. He specifically highlighted Pakistan’s crucial role in combating ISIS Khorasan (ISIS-K), the affiliate of the militant group operating in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region.
“Our strong military partnership with Islamabad has yielded tangible results against terrorists,” Admiral Cooper told the Senate panel. He further noted that Pakistan plays a key role in the fight against ISIS Khorasan.
The CENTCOM chief also revealed that US Central Asian partners are actively monitoring the threats of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, particularly those linked to the Afghan Taliban. He stated that Washington is keeping a close watch on Afghanistan due to persistent terrorist activities and regional security threats, adding that the country “continues to be at the top of the US surveillance list.”
In a sharp critique of the situation inside Afghanistan, Admiral Cooper exposed the terrorist networks that have been flourishing under the influence of the occupying Afghan Taliban. His assessment pointed to the group’s failure or inability to curb militant activities on its soil.
Global experts analyzing the Admiral’s testimony said the statement serves as a significant acknowledgment of Pakistan’s long-standing sacrifices in the war against terrorism. According to analysts, Cooper’s assessment has strengthened the credibility of Pakistan’s role in regional counter-terrorism efforts, even as concerns grow over the security vacuum in neighboring Afghanistan.
