A senior Pakistani official linked water access to national security, issuing stark warnings that could reshape regional diplomacy and threaten crossborder stability.
Pakistan threatens to declare war on India in case of restricted access to drinking water due to India’s refusal to adhere to the Indus Water Treaty of 1960. Such statements came in an interview with Pakistan’s Minister of Defense Khawaja Muhammad Asif on ARY News channel.
According to the official, in the face of a threat to national security, water resources are considered an important component of the state’s security, and Pakistan is prepared to use force against India if serious water-supply risks arise again.
As soon as we face a threat to our national security, and water resources are part of it, we will start a war against India. Undoubtedly
– Khawaja Muhammad Asif
If there is evidence that India is acting with alarming speed to disrupt Pakistan’s water supply and intends to use water as a weapon.
– Khawaja Muhammad Asif
Background and implications for the region
Such statements are linked to New Delhi’s April 2025 decision to unilaterally suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in response to an attack in the town of Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. Indian authorities called Pakistan a sponsor of terrorism and said the treaty would be suspended until Pakistan takes steps to dismantle its cross-border terrorist infrastructure.
Under the Indus Treaty, Pakistan received almost 80% of the Indus basin water, providing about a third of the country’s population with drinking water and water for domestic needs, primarily for agriculture.
The current tension around water resources underscores the sensitivity of water issues as a key security factor between Pakistan and India and raises concerns about regional stability. In this context, it is important to closely monitor the positions of both sides and the diplomatic efforts that could reduce tensions and prevent escalation over water resources.
Going forward, international and regional dialogue on water cooperation remains critically important for reducing risks and maintaining stability in the region.
