Mohammad Sharifullah, a key suspect in the 2021 Kabul airport suicide bombing, appeared in a US federal court on March 5, 2025, after being captured by Pakistani intelligence. Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, is accused of assisting the attack that killed 13 US service members and 170 Afghan civilians during the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Sharifullah faces charges of providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which led to deaths. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment. During his first hearing, he used a Dari translator due to his limited English proficiency. Sharifullah admitted to guiding the suicide bomber to the airport, according to an FBI affidavit.
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The arrest of Sharifullah, a senior Daesh commander, followed a US intelligence lead and took place near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. US President Donald Trump praised Pakistan’s crucial role in the operation, thanking the Pakistani government for their counterterrorism cooperation during a speech to Congress.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional peace and security, stressing the partnership between Pakistan and the US in combating terrorism. He emphasized Pakistan’s sacrifices and continued dedication to eliminating extremist forces.
Sharifullah’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 10, 2025.
