US Backs Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions with Taliban: What’s Next?

US Support for Pakistan's Defense Against Taliban Threats

Washington: The United States has expressed its support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against attacks from the Taliban, as tensions escalate along the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. President Donald Trump commended Pakistan's leadership, stating that he has a strong rapport with the country and its leaders.

Before boarding Marine One, Trump remarked, "I have a great relationship with Pakistan. You have an excellent prime minister and a commendable general leading the country. I believe Pakistan is performing exceptionally well."

These comments come in light of recent clashes at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, raising alarms about regional stability.

A spokesperson from the State Department indicated that the U.S. is monitoring the situation closely, expressing sorrow over the loss of life due to the ongoing conflict.

The spokesperson reaffirmed that the U.S. supports Pakistan's right to self-defense against the Taliban, which is recognized as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group.

Additionally, the spokesperson criticized the Taliban for failing to meet their counterterrorism obligations, allowing violence to persist and enabling terrorist organizations to use Afghanistan as a base for attacks.

While Trump did not announce any specific actions in response to the rising tensions, his praise for Pakistan's leadership, along with the State Department's supportive stance, indicates ongoing U.S. engagement with Islamabad during this critical period.

The border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has a history of conflict, with Islamabad accusing militant groups based in Afghanistan of launching attacks. The Taliban government in Kabul has denied allegations of harboring such groups.

For India, the situation along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border is of significant concern, as instability in the region affects counterterrorism efforts and broader security dynamics in South Asia. New Delhi has consistently voiced its worries regarding terrorist activities emanating from Afghan territory and has called for strict adherence to international counterterrorism standards.