Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Feb 28: US President Donald Trump on Friday praised Pakistan’s leadership, saying he shares a “very, very well” relationship with the country, even as hostilities with Afghanistan escalated into what Islamabad described as “open war.”

Asked about potential US intervention, Trump said he would consider it but emphasised his ties with Pakistan, adding, “They have a great Prime Minister, a great general. They have a great leader. Two of the people that I really respect a lot. Pakistan is doing terrifically well.”

The US State Department also signalled support for Islamabad. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison M. Hooker conveyed condolences to Pakistan for lives lost and expressed support for the country’s right to defend itself against Taliban attacks.

Meanwhile, the US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan issued a security advisory for American citizens, warning of heightened threats to law enforcement facilities, military installations, and major commercial centres.

The escalation follows Pakistan’s airstrikes in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia over alleged Taliban support for militants, marking the first direct strikes on Taliban-controlled cities. Both sides reported casualties, though figures could not be independently verified.

Despite the conflict, Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers expressed willingness to negotiate, and Qatar has stepped in to mediate.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the violence and its impact on civilians, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urging resolution through diplomacy.