Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and India have escalated dramatically, with Pakistan’s government declaring that any attempt by India to divert the flow of river waters would be considered an act of war. This stark warning comes amidst a backdrop of already heightened tensions following a deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the sharing of water from the Indus River system, a crucial lifeline for both nations. The treaty allocates the eastern rivers (Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas) to India and the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) primarily to Pakistan, while allowing some usage rights for the other country.
Following the recent attack in Kashmir, India announced the suspension of the IWT, a move Pakistan has vehemently condemned. Islamabad maintains that the treaty is legally binding and cannot be unilaterally suspended.
In a strong statement issued today, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) asserted that water is a “vital national interest” for its 240 million people and that any attempt to disrupt the agreed-upon water flow would be met with a forceful response “across the complete spectrum of National Power,” a thinly veiled reference to its nuclear capabilities.
“Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of the lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War,” the NSC declared.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated this stance, stating that unilateral action on the water treaty was unacceptable and that Pakistan would consider holding other bilateral treaties, such as the Simla Agreement, in abeyance in response to any water disruption.
This escalation over water resources adds a dangerous new dimension to the already strained relationship between the two countries. The suspension of the IWT, which has survived several wars and conflicts, is seen by many analysts as a significant and potentially destabilizing move by India. Pakistan’s forceful reaction underscores the critical importance of these water resources for its agricultural economy and overall stability.
The international community is likely to be deeply concerned by this development, given the nuclear arsenals of both nations and the potential for any conflict to escalate rapidly. Calls for de-escalation and adherence to the Indus Waters Treaty are expected to grow in the coming days.
