Trump announces capture of terrorist behind deadly Abbey Gate attack

Shreedhar Rathi | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Mar 05, 2025, 15:46 IST
Trump announces capture of 'monster' behind Afghanistan suicide bombing, thanks Pakistan
( Image credit : IANS )
President Donald Trump announced the arrest of Muhammed Sharifullah, the terrorist behind the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan, which killed 13 U.S. service members. Captured with Pakistan's help, this marks a significant victory for the victims' families. Critics claim the chaotic U.S. withdrawal empowered adversaries, but Trump emphasizes a renewed commitment to justice.


In a dramatic address before a joint session of Congress, President Donald Trump announced that the terrorist responsible for the deadly 2021 Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan has been apprehended. The attack claimed the lives of 13 U.S. service members and injured over 170 Afghan civilians during the chaotic withdrawal from Kabul.

"Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have just apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity," Trump declared. "And he is right now on his way here to face the swift sword of American justice."

A Long-Awaited Victory for Families of the Fallen

Fox News confirmed that the suspect, identified as Muhammed Sharifullah, was captured with the assistance of the Pakistani government. Trump personally expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for aiding in the terrorist’s arrest.

"This was a very momentous day for those 13 families, who I actually got to know very well," Trump stated. He recounted conversations with the bereaved families, highlighting their emotional response to the news. "I spoke to them on the phone. We had a big call. Every one of them called. And everybody was on the line, and they did nothing but cry with happiness. They were very happy. As happy as you can be under those circumstances."

The attack at Kabul’s Abbey Gate was one of the most tragic moments of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, an event that critics have long described as mismanaged. The explosion, carried out by ISIS-K, targeted U.S. troops assisting with the evacuation of American citizens and Afghan allies.

The Aftermath of the Afghanistan Withdrawal

The chaotic withdrawal led to the rapid takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban, leaving hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghan allies stranded. Conservative lawmakers, including Sen. Ted Cruz, have argued that the withdrawal projected weakness and emboldened adversaries such as Russia.

"Such incompetence was shown that when Putin saw what happened, I guess he said, ‘Well, maybe this is my chance,’" Trump remarked, reinforcing the belief that the withdrawal had broader geopolitical consequences.

Families of the fallen service members have been vocal in their criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of the withdrawal, accusing officials of failing to provide adequate support or accountability. Many have expressed frustration over what they see as a lack of responsibility from top officials.

Moving Forward: A Renewed Commitment to Justice

Trump’s announcement signals a renewed commitment to justice for the victims of the Abbey Gate attack. His administration has pledged to prioritize the safety of American troops and citizens abroad, as well as to hold accountable those responsible for acts of terrorism against the United States.

"Americans have always been the people to defy all odds," Trump asserted. "This is a reminder that justice, no matter how long it takes, will always be served."

With the arrest of Muhammed Sharifullah, the families of the fallen soldiers may find some solace, knowing that their loved ones' sacrifice has not been forgotten. As the legal process unfolds, the country watches closely, hopeful that this marks the beginning of a new chapter in America’s fight against terrorism.



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