Bilawal Warns of Escalating War Risk with India Over Water Dispute
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that the threat of war between nuclear-armed neighbours Pakistan and India is at its most dangerous level in years, citing India’s recent threats to cut off Pakistan’s water supply as a potential act of war.
In an interview with Sky News, Bilawal denounced the threats as a direct violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. “India is using water as a weapon, which endangers the lives of 240 million Pakistanis,” he said, calling the move not only inhumane but also legally indefensible.
He emphasized that while a ceasefire continues along the Line of Control (LoC), durable peace remains elusive. “India’s hostile rhetoric and actions are pushing the region closer to conflict,” he said.
Bilawal reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of all bilateral disputes, including terrorism, Kashmir, and water rights. However, he made it clear that any unilateral attempt by India to suspend or restrict water flow under the Indus Waters Treaty would be viewed by Islamabad as a declaration of war.
“The Indus Waters Treaty is a binding international agreement brokered by the World Bank in 1960, and India has no legal grounds to alter or terminate it unilaterally,” he stated.
He accused the Indian government of intensifying a disinformation campaign against Pakistan and attempting to manipulate global narratives, particularly on sensitive issues like Kashmir and water resources. “New Delhi is trying to weaponize an essential resource. Under the Treaty, India cannot block water entirely, but it has already reduced flows, threatening Pakistan’s agriculture and public needs,” Bilawal added.
Despite these provocations, he asserted, Pakistan continues to advocate for peace and regional stability. “Pakistan is a responsible nuclear power that believes in coexistence. But let there be no doubt — any aggression related to water or territorial sovereignty will be met with a firm and proportionate response.”
He urged the international community, especially the United Nations and major powers, to take immediate notice of India’s posture and play their role in de-escalating tensions.
“This is not just about two countries,” Bilawal warned. “This is about the future of over a billion people in South Asia. The world must act before it’s too late.”
