Pakistan defence minister warns of 'war' against India

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated the possibility of a military conflict with India, warning that his country would be forced to consider war if its national security, particularly water supply, is threatened.

In an interview with ARY News on Saturday, June 20, Asif said, "The moment we feel our national security is threatened, we will fight India—certainly." He added that if India causes any serious disruption to Pakistan's water flow and reliable evidence is found, Islamabad would consider military action.

The tensions stem from India's decision in April to suspend the 1960 Indus Water Treaty following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, India-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 people. New Delhi has said the treaty will only be fully restored if Pakistan demonstrates visible progress in dismantling cross-border terrorist networks.

Pakistan has accused India of using water as a "weapon" and disrupting the natural flow of rivers, including the Chenab, though specific evidence remains unclear.

Meanwhile, concerns are growing within Pakistan over its own water management weaknesses. Parts of Sindh and Balochistan are facing severe water shortages, with canal water deficits reaching 40 to 80 per cent, according to official data. Water levels at key infrastructure sites like Sukkur Barrage have dropped, putting pressure on agriculture and the economy.

Source: NDTV