‘Pak Has A Great Leader’: Trump Praises Pakistan Amid ‘Open War’ With Afghanistan, Says ‘Would Intervene'

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he shares a "very, very well" relationship with Pakistan, even as tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have sharply increased.

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His comments came at a time when cross-border fighting between the two countries has intensified. Pakistan has described the situation as "open war" after carrying out airstrikes inside Afghanistan.

Trump Says He Respects Pakistan's Leadership

When asked by reporters whether the United States would intervene in the conflict, Trump said he would consider it. However, he highlighted his strong ties with Pakistan's leadership.

"I get along with Pakistan very, very well. They have a great Prime Minister, a great General. They are leaders I respect a lot. Pakistan is doing terrifically well," Trump said.
His remarks signal continued diplomatic engagement with Islamabad, despite growing instability in the region.

US State Department Expresses Support

The US State Department also reacted to the situation. Allison M. Hooker, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, said she had spoken with Pakistan's Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch.

Hooker expressed condolences for the lives lost in the recent violence. She also stated that the United States supports Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks.
The statement suggests that Washington is closely watching developments and maintaining communication with Islamabad.

Security Advisory for US Citizens

Amid rising tensions, the US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan issued a security advisory for American citizens.

The advisory said Pakistani security forces have increased their presence in major cities due to possible terrorist threats. It warned that:

• Law enforcement facilities
• Military installations
• Major commercial centers

could be potential targets for terrorist groups.

US citizens were advised to remain alert, avoid crowded places during peak hours, and follow local safety guidelines.

Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict Intensifies

The conflict escalated after Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia. This marked the first time Pakistan directly targeted Taliban-controlled cities, accusing them of sheltering militants responsible for attacks inside Pakistan.

Pakistan said 12 of its soldiers were killed. Afghanistan, under Taliban control, claimed that 13 Taliban fighters died. Both sides reported higher enemy casualties, but the numbers could not be independently verified.

The 2,600-kilometre border between the two countries has long been a source of tension, but the current situation has raised serious concerns about a wider conflict.

Taliban Open to Talks

Despite the escalation, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Afghanistan is ready for dialogue.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has always tried to resolve issues through dialogue," he said.

Qatar, which has previously helped mediate between the two sides, is reportedly working again to reduce tensions.

United Nations Calls for Peace

In New York, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the violence.

His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said Guterres is worried about the impact of the fighting on civilians. He called for an immediate stop to hostilities and urged both sides to resolve their differences through diplomacy.

The situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains tense. While military actions continue, diplomatic efforts are also underway.

Trump's supportive comments towards Pakistan, along with calls for peace from the United Nations, show that the international community is watching closely.

Whether the crisis will escalate further or move toward negotiations will depend on the next steps taken by both sides. For now, the region remains on high alert.

Credit: Oneindia