Any attempt by India to stop Indus water will be seen as ‘act of terror’: Pakistan

Pakistan retaliates against India's suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with various measures, including closing airspace and reducing diplomatic presence.

A day after India decided to hold the Indus Water Treaty at abeyance, Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office said any such attempt would be seen as an “act of terror.” The country also announced a series of retaliatory actions including blocking its airspace for India and suspension of all trade activities.

Pakistan’s National Security Committee comprising top civilian and military leadership held its meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (April 24, 2025).

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The Committee observed that Kashmir remains an unresolved dispute between Pakistan and India and reiterated its stand that Kashmiris have the right of self-determination. While “unequivocally” condemning the terror attack, the Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office stated, “In the absence of any credible investigation and verifiable evidence, attempts to link the Pahalgam attack with Pakistan are frivolous, devoid of rationality and defeat logic.”

The Committee decided to “vehemently reject” the Indian announcement to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. “The Treaty is a binding international agreement brokered by the World Bank and contains no provision for unilateral suspension. Water is a Vital National Interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people and its availability will be safeguarded at all costs. Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power,” a statement read.

In retaliation, Pakistan has decided to keep all bilateral agreements with India, including the Shimla Pact in abeyance. Pakistan shall close down the Wagah Border Post, with immediate effect and all cross-border transit from India through this route shall be suspended, without exception. Those who have crossed with valid endorsements may return through that route immediately but not later than April 30, 2025.

Just like India, Pakistan too has suspended all visas under SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) issued to Indian nationals, but gave exception to Sikh pilgrims. It urged Indians in Pakistan to leave within 48 hours.