DeKalb GA News

The individual identified as the mastermind behind the Abbey Gate bombing, which resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members during the Afghanistan withdrawal, has been extradited to the United States and is now in FBI custody. The announcement was made by President Donald Trump, who addressed the nation regarding this development.

"America is once again standing strong against the forces of radical Islamic terrorism," stated President Trump. He expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for their assistance in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as "Jafar." This arrest marks a significant moment for the families affected by the attack.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed Sharifullah's extradition and praised those involved in bringing him to justice: "As President Trump just announced, I can report that tonight the FBI, DOJ, and CIA have extradited one of the terrorists responsible for the murder of the 13 American soldiers at Abbey Gate during the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal."

Attorney General Pamela Bondi commented on Sharifullah's capture: “This evil ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic Marines.” She emphasized that under President Trump's leadership, there will be no safe haven for terrorists like Sharifullah.

The charges against Sharifullah include providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Erik S Siebert reiterated America's commitment to holding terrorists accountable: “The charges announced today carry an unmistakable message: the commitment of the United States to hold accountable all who facilitate and carry out acts of terror against us will never waver.”

Sharifullah admitted during an FBI interview to his involvement in planning multiple attacks on behalf of ISIS-K. These include aiding preparations for a suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 26, 2021, which killed 13 U.S. service members and approximately 160 civilians.

In addition to his role in this attack, Sharifullah confessed to participating in other violent acts linked to ISIS-K over several years. These include orchestrating a suicide bombing near Kabul's Canadian embassy in June 2016 and providing tactical guidance for an assault on Crocus City Hall near Moscow in March 2024.

Sharifullah is expected to appear before a federal district court judge where his sentence will be determined based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.