Former US diplomat says US wants to stop Afghanistan becoming anti‑US hub

Washington has reiterated its strategic priority of preventing Afghanistan from evolving into a sanctuary for groups hostile to the United States, according to former U.S. diplomat Zalmay Khalilzad. Khalilzad, who served as ambassador to Afghanistan during the Obama administration, told reporters that U.S. policymakers view the country's stability as integral to broader regional security and that any resurgence of anti‑U.S. militant activity would be unacceptable.

He noted that the United States is working with the Taliban‑led government and neighboring states to strengthen border controls, monitor extremist financing, and limit the flow of foreign fighters. In addition, Washington is leveraging diplomatic outreach and targeted assistance to encourage Afghan authorities to enforce counter‑terrorism measures, while maintaining a focus on humanitarian and development needs. Khalilzad emphasized that these efforts aim to ensure Afghanistan does not become a launchpad for attacks against U.S. interests, underscoring the administration’s continued vigilance in the region.