Trump's praise
The appreciation from US President Donald Trump on Pakistan's role in counter-terrorism hints at greater cooperation in times to come. Speaking before the joint session of Congress, Trump lauded Islamabad's unfettered support in helping net a key terrorist involved in the 2021 Kabul Airport bombing. The sentiment was reciprocated by PM Shehbaz Sharif as he reaffirmed Pakistan's determination to combat terrorism.
Trump's acknowledgment is the way to go as any anti-terror protocol would be incomplete in the region without Pakistan. This calls for renewed coordination in defence and intelligence spheres, and the largesse that the US has exhibited by approving $397 million for Pakistan's F-16 fighter jet fleet maintenance is a sign of farsightedness. While Islamabad is an allied-ally of Washington, and the relationship has survived crests and troughs, the menace of terrorism calls for chalking out a new roadmap for the region and beyond. Working together in ushering normalcy in Afghanistan and taking out terror sanctuaries are indispensable steps. Washington's realisation testifies that Pakistan is not isolated anymore, and there are enough common denominators to act upon.
The consolatory words from Washington came hours after a daredevil attack on Bannu Cantonment, which claimed the lives of five army personnel as they valiantly resisted an ambush. The terrorists had tried to enter the fortified compound with the help of suicide bombers, resulting in a heavy exchange of fire. According to ISPR, all the 16 terrorists were gunned down and the attack was successfully repulsed.
It needs to be noted that the zone has become a lynchpin for extra-territorial actors who make their way from across the western borders. It should be studied in the wider context of international terrorism, and this is where major powers, especially the US, must stand firm to exterminate the menace. Supporting Pakistan in fighting terrorism is a must for cleansing the entire region of unscrupulous elements, whose activities are detrimental to peace and security as well as regional economies.