Washington: Amid rising hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan, US President Donald Trump has publicly praised Pakistan’s top leadership, describing his ties with the country as strong and respectful.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Donald Trump said he shares a positive relationship with Pakistan and commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir. He remarked that Pakistan was “doing very well” and referred to its civilian and military leaders as individuals he holds in high regard. When asked whether he would consider stepping in diplomatically if tensions worsened, Trump indicated he would be open to involvement but emphasized his existing rapport with Islamabad.
The remarks come at a time of intensifying friction between the two neighbouring countries. Diplomatic ties have deteriorated sharply, with both sides accusing each other of cross-border strikes. Islamabad recently announced what it termed an “open war” posture after carrying out aerial operations in areas including Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia.
Washington has also weighed in on the crisis. US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker expressed condolences over casualties reported in the recent clashes and reiterated support for Pakistan’s right to self-defence. In a statement shared online, she said the United States is closely observing developments and backs Pakistan’s efforts to respond to attacks attributed to Taliban elements.
Pakistani authorities, meanwhile, alleged that Afghan drones targeted locations such as Abbottabad, Swabi and Nowshera. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that air defence systems intercepted the drones and reported no fatalities. Following the incidents, Pakistan imposed a countrywide ban on civilian and commercial drone activity, according to notifications issued by the Interior Ministry.
Kabul has offered a different account, maintaining that its air force conducted strikes inside Pakistan in response to what it described as prior “aerial incursions.” Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry claimed its forces hit multiple military-linked sites, including areas near Islamabad and Nowshera, asserting that the action was retaliatory in nature.
As accusations mount on both sides, concerns are growing about the possibility of a broader confrontation in the region. International observers continue to monitor the situation, urging restraint to prevent further escalation.
