ISLAMABAD: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has warned that India’s recent moves regarding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) are laying the groundwork for a potential nuclear war over water resources.
Speaking at the Middle East Institute in Washington, Bilawal stressed that India’s decision to hold the IWT in abeyance amid deteriorating bilateral relations, following the April 22 Pahalgam attack in occupied Kashmir, is an existential threat to Pakistan.
The move by India has prompted Pakistan to suspend several bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement, and close the Wagah border, halting trade with New Delhi. Pakistan has launched an international campaign, including visits to the US, London, and Brussels, to present its stance and counter India’s diplomatic efforts.
The delegation includes prominent politicians and diplomats, all focused on urging global support for Pakistan’s position.
Bilawal’s Warning on Water Scarcity and Conflict
Bilawal warned that water scarcity is no longer a theoretical challenge but a pressing reality that could trigger conflicts. “India shutting off Pakistan’s water supply is laying the foundations for the first nuclear water war,” he said, emphasizing that cutting off water would be viewed as an act of war by Pakistan.
He appealed to the US and other nations to uphold the treaty and prevent India from setting a dangerous precedent that could destabilize the entire region.
He highlighted the severe climate challenges both countries face, including floods and droughts, stressing that cooperation on water management is vital.
Bilawal also condemned India’s refusal to cooperate on terrorism investigations and peace dialogues, underscoring that this hardline stance fuels further conflict rather than peace.
Call for Peace and Cooperation
Despite the tensions, Bilawal expressed a desire for peaceful resolution, urging collaboration between India and Pakistan. He argued that working together could eradicate terrorism, create peace in Kashmir, and help both nations address climate and water challenges effectively.
Bilawal urged the global community to support Pakistan’s efforts to prevent a catastrophic conflict and promote lasting peace.
