In a significant escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, Islamabad has issued a stern warning following India’s suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Pakistan views any disruption to the flow of water from the Indus River system as a violation of its rights and has declared such actions as acts of war.
Background of the Indus Waters Treaty
The IWT, brokered by the World Bank, allocates the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries between the two nations. While India controls the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej), Pakistan has rights over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab). The treaty has been a cornerstone of bilateral relations, ensuring the equitable distribution of water resources.
India’s Suspension of the Treaty
India’s recent decision to suspend the treaty has been met with strong condemnation from Pakistan. Pakistani officials argue that the move is a deliberate attempt to undermine the agreement and disrupt the water supply essential for Pakistan’s agriculture and daily life. They have warned that any attempt to divert or block the flow of water from the western rivers will be considered an act of war and will be met with a full spectrum response.
Pakistan’s Retaliatory Measures
In response to India’s suspension of the treaty, Pakistan has taken several retaliatory measures, including expelling Indian diplomats, closing the Wagah border, and halting all cross-border trade. These actions are seen as a direct response to India’s move and a demonstration of Pakistan’s resolve to protect its water rights.
Legal Challenges and International Reactions
Pakistan is preparing to legally challenge India’s suspension of the IWT, exploring multiple avenues, including the World Bank, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and the International Court of Justice. The international community has expressed concern over the potential for conflict and has urged both nations to engage in dialogue to resolve the dispute peacefully.
Conclusion
The suspension of the IWT has heightened fears of a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Experts caution that the situation is precarious, with both sides possessing significant military capabilities. The international community has urged both nations to engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation and to seek a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
