Islamabad, 1 May, 2025: Pakistan warns India of a firm and immediate reaction should any provocative steps be taken along the border, reiterating that while it seeks peace.
Its armed forces remain fully prepared to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
During a joint press briefing in Islamabad on Wednesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, flanked by Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations Lt. Gen.
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Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry and Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, underlined that Islamabad would not initiate conflict but would retaliate strongly to any escalation from New Delhi.
He stated that global leaders had been urging both sides to exercise caution in recent days, adding that Pakistan, acting in accordance with those appeals, would not be the first to escalate tensions.
However, Pakistan warns that any hostile action from India would be met with a decisive and robust response.
Dar categorically rejected New Delhi’s accusations regarding Pakistan’s alleged involvement in the Pahalgam incident, saying the claims lacked any credible evidence and appeared orchestrated.
He questioned the timing of the allegations, noting that Pakistan was making notable strides in economic recovery and counterterrorism efforts.
Calling for an independent and impartial investigation into the matter, he emphasized that any terms of reference must be trustworthy and mutually agreed.
“Pakistan neither played a role in the incident nor stood to gain from it,” Dar remarked, questioning India’s motives behind stoking tension at this juncture.
On the matter of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), Dar criticized India’s recent decision to halt its implementation, describing it as unlawful and one-sided.
He clarified that the treaty, which governs water sharing between the two countries, does not permit unilateral changes and any amendments must be reached through consensus.
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“Pakistan is a predominantly agricultural nation, and millions depend on the river systems governed by the IWT,” he explained.
“Our country surrendered rights to three rivers under this agreement such generosity is rare in global water-sharing accords.”
Dar concluded by citing the National Security Committee’s stance, which considers any attempt to disrupt or divert Pakistan’s rightful share of water as defined under the IWT as an act tantamount to war.
