Blocking Pakistan’s Water Means ‘War’: Shehbaz Sharif
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has warned that any attempt to block, obstruct, or divert Pakistan’s fair share of water will be considered an act of war, emphasizing that water should never be weaponized. He issued this warning during his address at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. Mr. Sharif also strongly criticized India’s decision to suspend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, claiming it lacks any legal basis. He asserted that UN experts’ positions and relevant arbitral tribunal decisions support Pakistan’s stance.
Highlighting the Indus Basin System as vital to Pakistan’s economy and its people’s livelihoods, the PM stated that any unilateral action concerning water flow could jeopardize regional stability. He urged India not to make any miscalculations in this regard. Additionally, Mr. Sharif referred to the four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan in May 2025. He praised the role of Pakistan’s armed forces and welcomed the mediation efforts by US President Donald Trump in bringing the conflict to an end.
On the Kashmir issue, Mr. Sharif reiterated the demand for a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices, affirming that Pakistan will continue providing diplomatic, political, and moral support to Kashmiris until their right to self-determination is realized. Concluding his address, the Pakistani PM emphasized regional peace and stability, while highlighting the necessity of resolving disputes with India through dialogue.
