ISLAMABAD: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, leading a parliamentary delegation on a global tour to garner support for Pakistan, warned that any Indian attempts to construct new dams or canals on the three rivers shared under the Indus Waters Treaty would be viewed as an act of war. Speaking in an interview with Sky News during his visit to the UK, he emphasized that India’s actions in suspending the treaty were a violation of the UN Charter and posed a serious threat to regional peace.
The comments came after the militant attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, India, which led to a flare-up between the two nuclear-armed nations. Both countries launched airstrikes, drones, and missiles during a four-day conflict, which only ended after a ceasefire was brokered by US President Donald Trump. Bilawal condemned India’s weaponization of water resources, highlighting that Pakistan would take aggressive steps if India proceeded with the construction of new water infrastructure that could affect Pakistan’s water supply.
Throughout the interview, Bilawal stressed Pakistan’s restraint during the recent escalation and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to peace through dialogue and diplomacy. Despite this, he expressed frustration with India’s refusal to engage in talks, particularly regarding issues such as Kashmir, terrorism, and water disputes.
The former foreign minister also reiterated that there was no legal framework allowing India to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. While acknowledging that India had delayed water release, Bilawal clarified that it had not yet halted the water flow entirely. He also stated that the April 22 attack in India was carried out by an indigenous group and had no connection to Pakistan.
During the delegation’s meetings in the UK, Bilawal emphasized the importance of international mediation and dialogue to address the ongoing conflict. He criticized India for rejecting impartial investigations and refused mediation, whether from the UK or the US. Bilawal’s visit to the UK also included a session at the prestigious Chatham House think tank, where the delegation discussed India’s recent military aggression and its violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty.
The Pakistani delegation underlined that the Kashmir dispute remains the central issue preventing lasting peace in the region. They called for international support in facilitating a meaningful dialogue that respects international commitments and human rights.
