Trump praises Pakistan leadership amid escalating Kabul-Islamabad conflict, backs Islamabad’s right to defend itself
Trump describes Pakistan's PM and military leadership as figures he deeply respects and added that Pakistan was performing “terrifically well”
PTC EWeb Desk: US President Donald Trump on Friday underscored his strong ties with Pakistan’s leadership, even as hostilities between Islamabad and Kabul deepened into what Pakistan has termed an “open war.”
Responding to questions from reporters about whether Washington would step into the crisis, Trump said intervention was possible but highlighted his positive relationship with Pakistan’s top officials. He described the country’s Prime Minister and military leadership as figures he deeply respects and added that Pakistan was performing “terrifically well.”
US signals support for Pakistan
The US administration also indicated diplomatic backing for Islamabad. Allison M Hooker, the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, said she had spoken with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch to convey condolences over the recent casualties.
Hooker stated that the United States continues to follow developments closely and affirmed support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against attacks attributed to the Taliban.
Separately, the United States Department of State issued a security advisory through the US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan. The advisory warned American citizens of heightened security measures across major cities, where Pakistani forces have stepped up their presence amid concerns about possible terrorist activity.
The notice cautioned that military facilities, law enforcement buildings and busy commercial hubs could remain potential targets. US nationals were advised to stay vigilant and limit visits to sensitive areas, particularly during peak hours.
Airstrikes mark sharp escalation
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have surged in recent days following cross-border clashes. Pakistan announced it had entered an “open war” phase after launching airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, the first instance of direct strikes on Taliban-controlled urban centres over allegations that militants were being sheltered across the border.
Casualty figures remain difficult to verify independently. Pakistan reported the deaths of 12 of its soldiers, while Afghan officials said 13 Taliban fighters were killed. Both sides, however, claimed significantly higher losses inflicted on the opposing side.
Taliban offer talks
Despite the intensifying conflict, the Taliban leadership signalled willingness to engage in dialogue. Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan preferred resolving disputes through negotiations.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further escalation along the roughly 2,600-km frontier. Qatar, which has earlier facilitated discussions between the two sides, is reportedly working behind the scenes to reduce tensions.
UN voices concern
At the United Nations headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm over the growing violence and its consequences for civilians. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, told reporters that Guterres had called for an immediate halt to hostilities and urged both countries to settle differences through diplomatic channels.
With military activity intensifying and diplomatic engagement still uncertain, regional observers warn that the confrontation could spiral further unless urgent de-escalation efforts succeed.