US Acting Under Secretary of State John Bass is set to visit Islamabad this week to discuss bilateral relations and regional security issues with Pakistani officials, as the country faces a surge in militant attacks. The visit, taking place from September 14 to 18, will focus on shared security concerns, including the rise in terrorism following the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021.
Pakistan has experienced an increase in attacks, largely attributed to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad claims is operating from Afghan territory. The Afghan government denies harboring militants, urging Pakistan to address its security problems domestically.
According to the US State Department, Bass’s meetings in Islamabad will address a broad spectrum of bilateral and security issues. Following his visit to Pakistan, Bass will travel to Ankara, Türkiye, to reinforce the US-Türkiye partnership and discuss regional stability efforts.
Historically, Pakistan and the US have cooperated in defense and counterterrorism, though their relationship has faced strains, especially after the September 11 attacks. Recently, tensions have risen due to allegations by former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, accusing the US of involvement in his ousting—a claim Washington denies.
