Islamabad: The Foreign Office (FO) has issued a stern warning, stating that any deliberate attempt to block water vital for Pakistan’s survival and growth will carry far-reaching consequences.
During his weekly press briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that any move to cut off water would be treated with the utmost seriousness and could potentially be deemed an act of war under Article 51 of the UN Charter.
This statement comes in response to Indian Minister for Power C.R. Patil’s remarks claiming that India is working to ensure not a single drop of water flows into Pakistan in the coming days.
The spokesperson emphasized that cutting off or significantly reducing water—which is crucial for the livelihood, agriculture, and well-being of over 250 million Pakistanis—would be highly irresponsible.
Such an act would directly violate international cross-border river obligations and the bilateral treaty between Pakistan and India.
Underlining that Pakistan’s water rights are non-negotiable, he added that every state has the right to self-defense, and Pakistan will utilize all diplomatic, political, legal, and economic means available under international law to protect its people.
- Kashmir Dispute and Indian Rhetoric
Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi dismissed Indian statements regarding Kashmir, asserting that India uses irresponsible rhetoric to divert global attention from the situation in Indian-Illegal Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
He reiterated that Kashmir is a globally recognized disputed territory, and United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions guarantee the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination. Consequently, India’s claims carry no weight or validity.
- Efforts to Release Pakistani Hostages in Somalia
Addressing the issue of Somali piracy, the FO disclosed that a group of Pakistani citizens, along with crew members from other nations, have been held hostage by pirates on a cargo ship for nearly 50 days.
Due to the highly complex nature of the situation, progress has been limited so far.
However, the government is actively engaging with Somali authorities, local stakeholders, and the ship owner.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently held a telephonic conversation with the Somali Foreign Minister to convey Pakistan’s deep concerns.
Additionally, the Somali Ambassador to Islamabad was summoned to the Foreign Office, and inter-ministerial meetings have been convened to ensure a coordinated rescue strategy.
- Concerns Over Middle East Tensons
Pakistan expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and Gulf region.
The spokesperson urged all involved parties to respect ceasefire agreements and prioritize dialogue and diplomacy.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan has always supported peaceful resolutions and remains in constant contact with regional and international partners to prevent further loss of human lives and regional instability.
