Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has warned that any move by India to block or restrict Pakistan’s water will be treated as an act of war.
Addressing ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps, he said India’s recent posture regarding the Indus Waters Treaty poses a serious threat to regional peace and stability.
‘Water cannot be weaponised’
Ishaq Dar said Pakistan is closely monitoring developments related to the Indus Waters Treaty and any attempt to alter water flows unilaterally would have severe consequences.
He stressed that water is a lifeline for Pakistan and any effort to stop or reduce its flow would cross a red line.
According to him, recent variations in the flow of the Chenab River have raised concerns, and Pakistan expects India to provide transparent and verifiable data regarding river flows.
Sharp criticism of India’s regional conduct
The foreign minister said India had levelled allegations against Pakistan regarding the Pahalgam attack without presenting evidence, followed by what he described as aggression.
He added that Pakistan’s armed forces, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, responded effectively to any hostile action.
Dar claimed that during previous escalations, Pakistan had demonstrated both military readiness and diplomatic resilience.
Reiterating Pakistan’s long-standing position, Ishaq Dar said durable peace in South Asia remains impossible without a resolution of the Kashmir dispute.
He said Pakistan has consistently supported peaceful dialogue but will defend its sovereignty and national interests firmly if challenged.
The deputy prime minister said Pakistan has always condemned aggression in the region, including attacks on Iran and Gulf states, reflecting its commitment to regional stability.
He also claimed that Islamabad played a role in facilitating diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran, noting that both sides came to the negotiating table after decades.
‘Pakistan will respond firmly’ warning
Ishaq Dar reiterated that Pakistan does not seek conflict but will respond strongly to any misadventure.
He said Pakistan has already demonstrated resilience in both military and diplomatic arenas and will continue to safeguard its sovereignty and water rights.
“Pakistan wants peace in the region, but peace cannot come at the cost of injustice or unilateral actions,” he said.
