US General Kurilla warns: ISIS-Khorasan threat persists despite Pakistan’s counterterrorism gains

US General Michael Kurilla emphasized Pakistan's critical role in counterterrorism efforts against ISIS-Khorasan despite ongoing threats and challenges.

Describing Pakistan as a 'phenomenal partner', Kurilla highlighted the active fight against ISIS-K with intelligence support from Washington, noting that Pakistan has captured at least five high-value ISIS-K individuals.

However, he also revealed the severe human cost terrorism has inflicted on Pakistan, stating, 'since the beginning of 2024, Pakistan had over a thousand terrorist attacks in the Western area, killing about 700 security personnel and civilians, and leaving more than 2,500 wounded.'

Kurilla acknowledged Pakistan's selective cooperation, referencing the handover of Mohammad Sharifullah, the mastermind behind the 2021 Abbey Gate attack that killed 13 US service members, while also noting Pakistan's complex stance on terrorism affecting India.

Despite these challenges, Kurilla warned that ISIS-K remains a potent threat with ambitions beyond South Asia, underscoring the need for continued US strategic engagement with both Pakistan and India.

"The US must not view its South Asia policy through a zero-sum lens," Kurilla told the House Armed Services Committee, advocating for balanced relations.

This nuanced approach reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, where counterterrorism cooperation coexists with diplomatic tensions.

Kurilla's testimony underscores the ongoing threat posed by ISIS-K and the importance of Pakistan's role, despite the country's internal security challenges and selective counterterrorism measures.

US General Kurilla praised Pakistan as a 'phenomenal partner' in counterterrorism against ISIS-Khorasan, despite ongoing threats and selective cooperation. He highlighted over 1,000 terrorist attacks in Pakistan in 2024, with 700 security personnel killed, urging continued US ties with both Pakistan and India.