KABUL, Afghanistan—Taliban have claimed that the arrest of the suspected mastermind behind the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing at Kabul airport underscores the presence of ISIS safe havens in Pakistan.
Hamdullah Fitrat, a deputy spokesperson for the Taliban, said in an audio message broadcast by Taliba-run National Television (RTA) that ISIS maintains “centers and hideouts” inside Pakistan.
His remarks followed former U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s announcement to Congress on Tuesday that Pakistan had arrested and transferred the suspect to U.S. custody.
The August 2021 attack, which took place during the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, killed 13 American service members and at least 170 Afghan civilians.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the arrest but stated that the individual is an Afghan citizen.
Pakistani media have identified the suspect as Sharifullah, also known as Jaafar, and reported that he was detained during a special operation by Pakistan’s intelligence services.
According to Reuters, the suspect is expected to appear in court on Wednesday.
Kash Patel, the FBI director, confirmed the transfer, posting on social media on Wednesday that U.S. agencies, including the Justice Department and the CIA, had taken custody of the suspect upon arrival at Dulles International Airport.
“To terrorists around the world responsible for harming Americans: We will hunt the ends of the earth and find you,” Patel said.
