In the wake of India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), Pakistan's former foreign minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has issued a strong warning, raising the specter of war if India proceeds with its perceived threats to Pakistan's water supply. The treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the use of the Indus River system, a vital water source shared by both nations.
Bhutto's remarks follow a recent statement by Indian Home Minister Amit Shah indicating that the IWT "will never be restored," a signal of India's hardening stance after a deadly terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. India unilaterally suspended its participation in the treaty on April 23, following the attack where 26 civilians were killed, blaming Islamabad without providing evidence. Pakistan has denied these allegations and called for a neutral probe.
Speaking before the National Assembly, Bhutto asserted that the IWT remains legally binding and warned that any attempt to cut off Pakistan's water supply would be a violation of international law. He declared, "If India decides to follow through on the [water] threat, we will have to wage war again.” He framed access to water as a "red line" and described India's actions as tantamount to a declaration of war. According to reports, India's actions have already reduced water flow to Pakistan by approximately 20%, severely impacting its agricultural sector and causing dams to reach critically low levels.
Bhutto emphasized that India has two options: adhere to the Indus Waters Treaty or face the consequences. He stated, "India has only two options: agree to the Indus Water Treaty, or Pakistan will wage another war and seize all six rivers.” He insisted that if India refuses to share water fairly, Pakistan would be compelled to "deliver water to us from all six rivers.”
Echoing Bhutto's sentiments, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has condemned India's suspension of the IWT as a "brazen violation" of international law and a "dangerous precedent." The ministry has indicated that legal action is being considered, but so far, international actors have remained silent on the issue.
Bhutto urged a revival of diplomatic dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, emphasizing that renewed talks are essential to de-escalate tensions and preserve regional stability. He warned that a lack of cooperation, especially in counterterrorism efforts, would only intensify violence in both countries, accusing India of "weaponizing terrorism for political purposes.” He also stated that peace between the two countries is impossible without cooperation.
Bhutto's comments underscore the high stakes and the potential for escalation in the ongoing water dispute. With India proceeding with its plans to divert water to states like Rajasthan through new canal infrastructure, and Pakistan warning of military consequences, the Indus River, once a symbol of cooperation, has become a potential flashpoint between the two nations.
