Khalilzad Says Pakistan Chose Force Over Negotiations

DID Press: Former US envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has condemned Pakistan’s recent military strikes inside Afghanistan, saying Islamabad once again resorted to force instead of pursuing dialogue to resolve disputes.

Khalilzad said Pakistan ignored both international and domestic calls for negotiations and launched attacks that reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries among non-combatants.

Referring to the Taliban administration, he noted that Kabul had supported several proposals aimed at addressing tensions with Pakistan, but argued that Islamabad had yet to provide a constructive response.

The former U.S. diplomat questioned whether Pakistan genuinely seeks a peaceful settlement of its disputes with Afghanistan or is pursuing other objectives, including destabilizing the country and expanding Chinese influence there.

Khalilzad further warned that continued instability in Afghanistan could create conditions favorable to extremist groups, particularly Islamic State Khorasan Province, while also increasing China’s strategic influence in the country.

According to Khalilzad, such developments would run counter to U.S. interests and could further complicate regional security dynamics.