Amidst recent Indo-Pak tensions, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) held a briefing addressing key issues, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and rebutting claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his role in de-escalating the conflict. The MEA's statements come in the wake of heightened tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and the subsequent "Operation Sindoor" conducted by India.

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty

India has declared the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 to be in abeyance. The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that this suspension will remain in effect until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. The MEA emphasized that the IWT was "concluded in the spirit of goodwill and friendship," but Pakistan has allegedly undermined these principles through its support of cross-border terrorism for decades. This decision aligns with India's stance that there can be no progress in bilateral relations until Pakistan takes verifiable steps to end its support for terrorism.

Rebuttal of Trump's Claims

The MEA also addressed claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that his administration had prevented a "bad nuclear war" between India and Pakistan. Trump attributed this achievement to his intervention, suggesting that the promise of trade was a significant factor in de-escalating tensions. However, the MEA refuted these claims, clarifying that India's military actions were "entirely in the conventional domain". Indian officials have maintained that the ceasefire agreement was negotiated bilaterally between New Delhi and Islamabad, without any external mediation. The MEA also stated that trade was not a topic of discussion during talks with U.S. officials regarding the military situation.

MEA on other key issues

MEA has clarified that the only issue with Islamabad regarding Kashmir is the return of illegally occupied territories to India. India has conveyed its position on President Trump's statements regarding the ceasefire to U.S. authorities. The MEA spokesperson also noted that India has taken note of China and Turkey's defense hardware support to Pakistan. India will approach the UN Security Council for sanctions against The Resistance Front (TRF), the group that claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack.

Operation Sindoor and the "New Normal"

The MEA briefing also shed light on "Operation Sindoor," India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation involved precision missile strikes on terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan. The MEA asserted that Pakistan's military capabilities were significantly degraded as a result of the operation, with key airbases effectively put out of action. The Indian government has described "Operation Sindoor" as establishing a "new normal" in relations with Pakistan, signaling a more assertive approach to dealing with cross-border terrorism. The MEA has urged Pakistan to recognize and adapt to this "new normal".

India's Stance on Terrorism and Bilateral Relations

India has firmly stated that it will not yield to nuclear blackmail or allow cross-border terrorism. The government has reiterated its commitment to taking strong action against those who threaten India's sovereignty and has vowed to respond appropriately to any Pakistani aggression. India maintains that any issues related to Jammu and Kashmir must be addressed bilaterally between India and Pakistan.

The MEA's briefing highlights India's resolve to combat terrorism, its commitment to resolving issues bilaterally with Pakistan, and its firm stance against external interference in these matters. The suspension of the IWT and the strong response to President Trump's claims underscore India's determination to set the terms of its relationship with Pakistan and to protect its national interests.