Khalilzad: TTP Leader Likely Alive Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Zalmay Khalilzad, former U.S. Special Envoy for Afghanistan Peace, described Pakistan’s recent attack on Kabul as unsuccessful and warned of the potential expansion of the security crisis.
In a recent statement, Khalilzad indicated that the primary target of the attack may not have been present in Kabul. He noted that alongside Pakistani jets breaking the sound barrier over Kabul’s sky, some leaders within Afghanistan have also been preparing and even demanding an immediate response.
He emphasized that the likelihood of conflict and increased instability in the region is rising. This warning comes as the Taliban administration lacks the capability to manage regional tensions and address external military threats, and its lack of planning could worsen the situation.
Khalilzad expressed skepticism about possible contacts between Pakistani officials, including the Defense Minister and the ISI chief, with Kabul, doubting that Pakistan’s intention in these communications is genuine peace. He stated that there is a significant difference between negotiating with the Taliban administration and engaging with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Recalling previous talks with the TTP during Imran Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister, Khalilzad noted that if Khan had not been removed and imprisoned, the peace process might have endured, saving thousands of Pakistani lives. He described the current Islamabad government as heading towards failure and increasing chaos.
In conclusion, Khalilzad called on the international community—especially countries influential over Pakistan—to exert political and diplomatic pressure on Islamabad to prevent a broader war, although he expressed limited optimism about the success of these efforts.
