“Water Is Lifeline for 240 Million Pakistanis,” Says Dar in Senate
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, issued a firm response to India’s announcement of unilaterally revoking the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a clear violation of an internationally recognized agreement and a direct threat to Pakistan’s national security.
Addressing the Senate on Friday, Dar stated, “Water is the lifeline for 240 million Pakistanis. The Indus Waters Treaty is a crucial, internationally recognized agreement that cannot be terminated by one party alone. Its annulment is only possible through mutual consent.”
He warned that the issue of water is intricately linked to Pakistan’s national security, stressing that future conflicts in the region could be driven by water disputes. “We will not show any leniency on this matter,” he asserted.
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Dar revealed that the National Security Committee had taken several key decisions in response to the situation, including the immediate suspension of all forms of trade with India, even indirect trade via third countries. Additionally, the Wagah border crossing has been closed with immediate effect.
“Anyone who looks at Pakistan with ill intent will receive a response — stronger and more decisive than ever before,” Dar warned, noting that Pakistan has already implemented two more countermeasures than India.
He also shared that extensive diplomatic engagement is underway. “Yesterday, 26 foreign ambassadors were briefed on the situation. More briefings are scheduled for today,” he said, adding that Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister is expected to speak with him later in the evening.
In light of rising regional tensions, Dar announced that all Indian nationals currently in Pakistan under the SAARC visa exemption must leave the country within 48 hours.
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He expressed gratitude to opposition parties for their united stance, emphasizing that national unity is Pakistan’s greatest strength. “Political leadership has given a clear message to the enemy: there will be no compromise on the defense of our homeland,” he said.
Referring to the recent Pahalgam incident, Dar pointed out that India had neither directly accused Pakistan nor provided any evidence linking the country to the event.
He criticized India for obstructing regional progress, stating, “SAARC wants development, but one country’s stubbornness continues to hold the entire region back.”
Concluding his address, Dar reassured the nation that Pakistan’s armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country, and that the government remains united and resolute in its response to any threat.
