Trump Backs Pakistan’s “Right To Defend” As Open War Erupts With Taliban

WASHINGTON / ISLAMABAD — As plumes of smoke rise over Kabul, the Trump administration has signaled a clear departure from traditional “neutrality” in the region. Speaking to reporters on Friday, President Trump described the Pakistani leadership as “terrific,” while the State Department confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely in support of its long-term ally.

1. Trump’s Personal Endorsement

When asked about the possibility of US intervention in the conflict, President Trump took the opportunity to praise the current Pakistani administration:

• “Great Leaders”: Trump referred to PM Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir as “a great Prime Minister” and “a great General.”
• Relationship Status: “I get along with Pakistan very, very well,” Trump stated, adding that he respects both leaders “a lot” and believes Pakistan is “doing terrifically well.”

2. The Diplomatic Shield: “Right to Defend”

While regional powers like China and Iran have called for an immediate ceasefire, the US has focused on Pakistan’s security concerns regarding the Taliban.

• Official Support: Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker confirmed US support for Pakistan’s right to defend itself against Taliban-led “attacks” and “unprovoked firing.”
• Condolences: In a meeting with Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, Hooker offered condolences for the Pakistani lives lost during the border clashes on Thursday.

3. Battlefield Update: Operation Ghazab lil-Haq

The conflict has moved from border skirmishes to deep-state strikes:

• Casualty Claims: Pakistan’s military (ISPR) claims to have killed 274 Taliban members and terrorists, losing 12 of their own soldiers. Conversely, the Taliban claims to have killed 55 Pakistani soldiers while losing only 13 troops.
• Targets Hit: Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed that Pakistani air assets successfully hit defense targets in the heart of Kabul, as well as in Kandahar and Paktia.

War Dashboard: Feb 28, 2026