ISLAMABAD, June 22: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that any threat to the country’s water security could trigger a strong response, describing the issue as a matter of national security.His remarks come amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan over the Indus Waters Treaty, a key river-sharing agreement signed between the two countries in 1960.
The dispute intensified after India placed the treaty in abeyance following the Pahalgam terror attack.Speaking to the media, Asif said Pakistan would view any action affecting its water interests very seriously. He stressed that water is vital for the country’s agriculture, economy and daily life, making its protection a top national priority.
The comments have added to the ongoing war of words between the two neighbours. India has maintained that its decision regarding the treaty is linked to security concerns, while Pakistan has called for the agreement to be fully respected.
Analysts believe the growing disagreement over water resources could further strain relations between the two nuclear-armed nations if diplomatic efforts fail to ease tensions.