Karachi, April 26, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a stern warning that any attempt by India to divert or block Pakistan share of water under the Indus Waters Treaty would be met with a full-force response.
Addressing a passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, Shehbaz declared water a “vital national interest” and emphasized that no disruption would be tolerated.
“No one should harbor any illusions about Pakistan’s resolve,” Shehbaz said. “Any disruption to our water flow will trigger a response proportional to the threat.” He stressed that while Pakistan believes in dialogue and peaceful coexistence, there would be no compromise on its core interests, especially the lifeline of water for its 240 million citizens.
The warning follows Pakistan’s growing concerns over Indian projects aimed at altering the flow of rivers governed by the Indus Waters Treaty. Signed in 1960 with World Bank mediation, the treaty has been a cornerstone of regional stability. However, tensions have recently flared, especially after India’s announcements hinting at the suspension of treaty obligations.
Recalling the 2019 Pulwama incident, Shehbaz reminded the audience that Pakistan had given a “measured yet resolute” military response to India’s reckless actions, demonstrating its full capability to defend its sovereignty. “Let this message be loud and clear: Pakistan will defend every inch of its land,” he said.
Despite the tough posture, Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to international norms, peaceful cooperation, and responsible behavior on the global stage. Speaking about recent allegations linked to the Pahalgam incident in Indian-controlled Kashmir, he criticized India’s pattern of baseless accusations and called for neutral, credible investigations. “Peace is our preference, but it must not be misconstrued as weakness,” he said firmly.
Shehbaz also highlighted Pakistan’s immense sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism, with over 90,000 casualties and economic losses exceeding $600 billion. “No nation understands the pain of terrorism more than Pakistan,” he said, reaffirming the country’s uncompromising stance against all forms of terrorism.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan is making significant strides. Shehbaz announced that after a period of economic stagnation, the country is progressing towards recovery, attracting foreign investment in mining, agriculture, IT, and defence sectors. He expressed pride in Pakistan’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025-26, vowing that Pakistan will actively promote global peace and uphold the UN Charter.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Kashmir and Palestine, emphasizing that Pakistan will continue to raise its voice for oppressed communities on every international platform.
The ceremony, attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asif Munir, federal ministers, diplomats, and families of cadets, concluded with a message of unity, resilience, and a renewed pledge to protect the dignity, security, and sovereignty of Pakistan under Shehbaz’s leadership.