Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has made it clear that stopping or diverting water from Pakistan’s share will be considered an act of war.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged the international community to play its effective role for the full restoration of the Indus Waters Treaty and its implementation. While giving a briefing at the Foreign Office, Ishaq Dar said that the United Nations Special Procedures have also expressed concern over India’s water actions. He said that the construction of dams by India is increasing the water storage capacity, which has raised concerns of illegal use of water.
The Foreign Minister said that unusual changes were recorded in the flow of the Chenab River twice this year, while India released water into the river without prior notice. Indian actions are also a violation of Article 26 of the Vienna Convention. Ishaq Dar said that Indian actions pose serious threats to peace and stability in South Asia, and Pakistan’s food security is also being affected. India’s recent behaviour is a clear example of using water as a weapon.
He added that India unilaterally suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in April 2025, even though the treaty is in force and both parties are required to abide by it. Unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is not possible. The Foreign Minister pointed out that projects like Kishanganga and Ratle are violations of the technical terms of the treaty, while India has also stopped the provision of hydrological data and joint monitoring. He said that the arbitration court in June and August 2025 had upheld the status of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Ishaq Dar said that India’s illegal dam construction and water initiatives are a threat to Pakistan’s security, economy, and people’s lives, and these initiatives have the potential to trigger a humanitarian crisis. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized that the Indus Waters Treaty is an important source of peace and stability in South Asia, and Pakistan seeks a peaceful resolution of disputes.
Read also: ADB: 80% of Pakistan’s population deprived of clean drinking water
