ISLAMABAD : Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday issued a stern warning to India over the unilateral suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, declaring that every drop of Pakistan’s water is a “red line” and that if New Delhi does not return to the right path, it will be met with a “direct response.”
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Victory Monument in Islamabad—built to commemorate Pakistan’s decisive victory in the Battle of Haq—the Prime Minister extended Independence Day greetings to the nation and paid rich tribute to the armed forces for their role in the historic triumph. He described the Victory Monument as a symbol of the superiority of Pakistani forces and a testament to the nation’s pride.
“The Battle of Haq raised the nation’s head with honor, and the enemy faced a crushing defeat,” PM Sharif said, his voice charged with emotion. “Today, a sea of emotions is beating in my heart. I pay tribute to the Field Marshal and the Pakistani forces for this success.”
Turning to the water dispute with India, the Prime Minister struck a defiant tone. “I declare that every drop of Pakistan’s water is our red line. If India does not come to the right path, it will be given a direct response,” he said. While reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to peace, he cautioned that the desire for peace should not be mistaken for weakness. “We do not want war, we want peace—but if the nation is united, no power can defeat us. No one should dare to look at Pakistan with a malicious eye.”
The Prime Minister emphasized national unity, urging that political differences should not turn into hostility. “We are all heirs of Pakistan,” he asserted.
On the diplomatic front, PM Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s growing role as a regional stabilizer, noting that the country successfully mediated between the US and Iran. He also welcomed Turkey’s inclusion in the Mecca Defense Agreement, calling it a symbol of peace in the Middle East. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the rights of the Palestinian people and the Kashmiris, vowing that their sacrifices would not go in vain.
Regarding Afghanistan, the Prime Minister advised the Afghan government to prevent terrorist activities from being launched from its territory. He also expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for brokering a timely ceasefire between Pakistan and India, which he said had saved millions of lives. “Hopefully, relations with the United States will be further strengthened in the future,” he added.
The Prime Minister concluded with a call for unity and resilience, asserting that Pakistan has become a symbol of stability in the region and expressing hope that the world remains safe from new conflicts.
