In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that Pakistan may have “no option but war” if India continues to block water flows under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). His remarks come amid rising tensions following India’s suspension of the treaty after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
“Water Is Our Lifeline,” Says Bhutto
In an interview with DW Urdu, Bhutto stated that any attempt by India to cut off Pakistan’s water supply would be seen as an existential threat, adding:
“We don’t want war, but we will not compromise on our national security or water rights.”
He emphasized that water security is non-negotiable, and accused India of violating international norms by unilaterally suspending the World Bank-brokered treaty.
India’s Stand: ‘Blood and Water Cannot Flow Together’
India suspended its participation in the IWT following the Pahalgam attack, citing Pakistan’s failure to curb cross-border terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that dialogue with Pakistan will only be on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, asserting that “blood and water cannot flow together”.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Push
Pakistan has sent four formal letters to India urging reconsideration of the suspension, and has approached the World Bank to mediate—though the Bank has so far declined to intervene. Bhutto has also called on the international community, including the United States, to pressure India into resuming dialogue.
Background: Indus Waters Treaty at Risk
Signed in 1960, the IWT governs water sharing between India and Pakistan. Despite multiple wars, the treaty has endured—until now. India’s recent actions include fast-tracking water infrastructure projects that could divert flows from the Indus basin, potentially impacting Pakistan’s Rabi crops and daily water supply.
