ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has issued a stern warning against any attempts to block water resources for Pakistan’s 250 million people, stating such a move would be treated as an “act of war.”
Speaking to the media in Washington on Saturday, Ambassador Sheikh underscored that the Indus Waters Treaty does not permit unilateral suspension by either party. “There is no provision in the agreement for such an action,” he stated, emphasizing that the international community would not condone the weaponization of water.
Indus Treaty Violation Seen as Escalation
The ambassador’s comments come in the wake of escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, following India’s recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Sheikh characterized the move as a breach of international norms and warned of grave consequences should the situation continue to deteriorate.
U.S. Role in De-escalation Praised
Ambassador Sheikh lauded the role of the United States in facilitating the recent ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. He particularly commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his diplomatic intervention.
“President Trump has demonstrated his commitment to regional peace. His efforts have been instrumental in preventing a further escalation,” Sheikh said, adding that Pakistan values the U.S. leadership’s constructive engagement in addressing regional issues.
Kashmir and Regional Stability
Reaffirming Pakistan’s position on Kashmir, the ambassador stressed that the dispute must be resolved in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people and relevant United Nations resolutions. “Pakistan remains committed to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir conflict,” he said.
Sheikh also condemned what he described as “provocative rhetoric” from Indian leaders, suggesting it reflects the “extremist Hindutva ideology” driving current policies in New Delhi.
Allegations of Destabilization in Balochistan
Touching on security concerns, the ambassador alleged that India’s involvement in destabilizing Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan is widely recognized. “India’s covert operations in Balochistan are no secret,” he claimed, while calling on the international community to hold India accountable for its actions.
Diplomatic Message Amid Rising Tensions
The ambassador’s remarks signal a firm stance from Islamabad amid rising hostilities, particularly concerning transboundary water rights and regional security. His statements aim to rally international support while urging diplomatic resolution over confrontation.
As tensions simmer, the world watches closely, with fears that further escalation between the South Asian neighbors could threaten broader regional stability.
