Trump Aware of Frankenstein’s Monster? How Much Longer Can Pakistan Deceive Its Allies on Terrorism?

For decades, Pakistan has walked a dangerous tightrope—claiming to be a frontline ally in the global war on terror while simultaneously providing safe havens to jihadist groups. This duplicitous approach has allowed it to extract billions in international aid while continuing to nurture militants who serve its strategic interests, particularly against India and Afghanistan. On March 09, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly thanked Pakistan for its role in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, a key suspect tied to the devastating 2021 Kabul airport bombing. While the arrest marks a rare instance of Pakistan cooperating in a high-profile counterterrorism effort, it has reignited a firestorm of debate. With the U.S. seemingly willing to overlook Islamabad’s broader track record, the durability of Pakistan’s double game hinges on how long the international community, particularly Washington, tolerates this ambiguity.