Shehbaz Sharif Warns India: “Not a Drop” from Indus Treaty
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has warned that Pakistan will not allow even a single drop of water to be taken in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty. He declared that any such move by India would be met with a decisive response, calling it a direct challenge to Pakistan’s sovereignty.
Rising Tensions Over Water Dispute
The statement follows India’s decision earlier this year to place the 1960 treaty in abeyance, citing national security concerns. Pakistan considers this a unilateral breach of a long-standing agreement and an escalation in already strained ties.
Military and Political Backing
Sharif’s remarks echo earlier statements by Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir, who had warned of strong retaliation against any violation of the treaty. The renewed focus on the issue comes amid heightened tensions following a recent terror attack in Kashmir, which further eroded diplomatic channels between the two nations.
Broader Diplomatic Fallout
Relations have been further strained by mutual accusations and retaliatory measures, including restrictions on cross-border movement and trade. Pakistan has reiterated that water security is a critical red line and any attempt to alter agreed terms will escalate the dispute.
Importance of the Indus Waters Treaty
The treaty, signed in 1960, governs the sharing of six rivers between India and Pakistan. Pakistan maintains that any disruption would threaten its agricultural lifeline and economic stability, making the issue a non-negotiable point in bilateral relations.
