Pakistan pursuing legal, diplomatic response to India's IWT stance: security sources

Pakistan is pursuing a comprehensive legal and diplomatic response to what it describes as Indian violations of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), while remaining fully prepared to safeguard its water interests through all elements of national power, security sources said on Tuesday.

During an interaction with media representatives, security sources said the National Security Committee's declaration of April 24, 2025 was read out to participants, reiterating Pakistan's position that water is a vital national interest.

According to the sources, the declaration clearly states that Pakistan will protect its water rights and interests "at all costs" through the full spectrum of national power.

The sources stressed that Pakistan's economic and social stability is deeply connected to water resources, agriculture and food security, making the issue a matter of national importance.

"Pakistan's economic and social fabric is closely linked to water, agriculture and food security. Whatever steps are required to protect these interests will be taken at the appropriate time," the sources said.

They maintained that while there was no ambiguity regarding Pakistan's military capability, preparedness and resolve, the country had also launched what they described as a highly effective legal and diplomatic campaign in response to India's position on the treaty.

The sources said Islamabad was pursuing the matter through international legal and diplomatic channels while continuing to highlight its concerns before relevant forums.

At the same time, they stressed the need for improved domestic water management and conservation measures, arguing that Pakistan must strengthen its water infrastructure regardless of external developments.

"Better water management and conservation are essential. Irrespective of what the military can and will do, Pakistan must invest in additional water storage, canals and stronger regulatory structures," the sources said.

The sources alleged that Indian statements regarding water issues were driven largely by domestic political considerations and efforts to maintain a political narrative centred on Pakistan.

According to the sources, India's rhetoric intensified following what they described as military and diplomatic setbacks in the aftermath of the recent Pakistan-India confrontation.

The sources claimed that New Delhi was attempting to justify its defence spending, which they said exceeded $90 billion annually, while also addressing domestic political pressures.

They further argued that questions were increasingly being raised within India regarding its regional policies and international positioning.

"India is great without greatness and historic without history," they said. 

The sources reiterated that Pakistan would continue to defend its rights under the Indus Waters Treaty through diplomatic, legal and strategic means while simultaneously pursuing reforms aimed at improving water conservation, storage capacity and long-term water security.

They maintained that water security would remain a central component of Pakistan's national security and economic planning in the years ahead.

Reporter: Ahmed Mansoor