The former U.S. envoy for Afghan peace, Zalmay Khalilzad, has stated that Pakistan`s recent airstrike on Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, appears to have failed, as the intended target was not present in the city.

According to Ansar News Agency, Khalilzad noted that some Afghan leaders are calling for an immediate response to Pakistan`s attacks, warning that "the risk of escalating conflict and instability in Afghanistan is serious and must not be ignored."

In a post on X, the former U.S. diplomat revealed that Pakistan`s Defense Minister and the head of the ISI are planning to visit Kabul, though it remains unclear whether this reflects a genuine willingness by Islamabad to engage in dialogue.

Khalilzad also referred to former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, saying:
"Had Imran Khan not been removed from power and imprisoned, peace negotiations with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) could have continued, preventing further bloodshed."

He emphasized that there is still an opportunity to return to diplomacy, but warned that **without international pressure, it is unlikely Pakistan will agree to meaningful talks.

Analysts interpret Khalilzad`s remarks as a reflection of growing concern over persistent tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, stressing that the current crisis requires urgent international mediation to prevent further escalation.

Earlier reports suggested that Pakistani aircraft carried out strikes on specific targets in Kabul, but that the operation achieved little militarily.

Longstanding border disputes, militant activities, and security challenges have continuously strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and the latest developments highlight the fragility of the situation in the region.