Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has issued a strong warning over India’s recent statements regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting that any attempt by India to block Pakistan’s water supply could lead to war.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with a British broadcaster during his diplomatic visit to the UK and the United States, Bilawal highlighted the gravity of India’s “major announcement” related to the treaty, warning of “serious consequences” if the treaty is undermined or violated.
“If India blocks Pakistan’s water supply, then there will be war. This is not just rhetoric—it’s the logical outcome if water is weaponized in our region,” Bilawal said. He further emphasized that this is not merely a bilateral dispute but a global issue, warning that setting such a precedent could encourage other nations to use water as a geopolitical weapon in future conflicts.
Bilawal stressed that Pakistan’s stance is “based on truth and justice,” and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to peace. “We have come with a message of peace, but we also come with the truth. In a region where nuclear capabilities exist on both sides, dialogue is not just an option—it is a necessity,” he added.
He referred to the recent tragic incident in Pahalgam, stating that even pro-India voices in the U.S. have admitted that New Delhi has failed to provide any credible evidence implicating Pakistan. “Terrorism is a global concern, but scapegoating Pakistan without proof serves no one,” he remarked.
Bilawal also highlighted Pakistan’s track record on counterterrorism, particularly its efforts that led to the country being removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. “During my tenure as Foreign Minister, Pakistan took significant steps to dismantle terrorist networks. Our compliance was monitored by the U.S. and the global community, and our actions were commended,” he said.
Referring to the FATF process, he said, “We undertook a comprehensive action plan. Every nation involved knows that Pakistan acted with sincerity and transparency.”
Regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, a historic water-sharing agreement brokered by the World Bank in 1960, Bilawal said India’s recent unilateral declarations have posed a severe threat to regional peace. “The treaty has stood the test of time through wars and political tensions. To jeopardize it now is to invite disaster,” he warned.
Bilawal asserted that internal politics should not dictate foreign policy, especially on issues as sensitive as water sharing. “India has taken a highly irresponsible stance on this. Water security is a global concern. If you allow water to be weaponized against Pakistan today, tomorrow it could happen elsewhere—including to India itself,” he cautioned.
In conclusion, Bilawal appealed to the international community to intervene and uphold the sanctity of international agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty. “This is not just about Pakistan or India—it’s about setting a dangerous precedent. The world must act before it’s too late,” he said.
Bilawal’s comments have stirred strong reactions in political and diplomatic circles, with observers calling for urgent dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbors to prevent any escalation.
