US President Donald Trump on Friday publicly backed Pakistan’s role in the conflict with Afghanistan, saying Islamabad was “doing terrifically well” and that he stood with Pakistan.

Trump was asked whether the United States would intervene in a possible Pakistan-Afghanistan war. He said he could step in if necessary but stressed that he enjoyed “very good relations” with Pakistan.

“Pakistan is moving forward in a very strong way,” Trump said, signalling that Washington did not intend to interfere at this stage.

The US president praised Pakistan’s leadership, calling Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif a “great prime minister” and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir a “great general.” He added that both leaders were people he had a lot of respect for.

Trump also commented on broader foreign policy issues during the media interaction.

He expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s approach to ongoing talks, saying Washington was unhappy with how Tehran was negotiating and reiterating that Iran would not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

Turning to Cuba, Trump said the country lacked money, oil and food, and made a remark suggesting the possibility of a friendly takeover.

His comments on Pakistan come amid heightened regional tensions, with Trump’s remarks indicating continued diplomatic support for Islamabad and confidence in its leadership.