he suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) by India in April 2025 has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, raising concerns over potential conflict.Wikipedia
๐ฎ๐ณ Indiaโs Position
India announced the suspension of the IWT on April 23, 2025, following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that resulted in 26 deaths. The Indian government cited sustained cross-border terrorism by Pakistan as the primary reason, asserting that such activities impede India’s ability to fully utilize its rights under the treaty .Hindustan Times+3Wikipedia+3Hindustan Times+3Hindustan Times
In a formal communication, India notified Pakistan that the treaty would remain in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably ceases all terrorism export activities. India emphasized that the suspension was a response to what it termed as Pakistan’s breach of the treaty’s conditions .The Times of India+1Hindustan Times+1Hindustan Times
Additionally, India initiated a flushing operation on May 1, 2025, affecting water levels in the Chenab River. Reports from Pakistan indicated a significant reduction in water flow, with claims of a 90% drop, leading to accusations of India choking the river’s flow .Wikipedia
๐ต๐ฐ Pakistanโs Response
Pakistan has strongly condemned India’s actions, labeling the suspension of the IWT as an act of “water warfare.” The Pakistan Commission on Indus Waters (PCIW) reported that India had violated the treaty by constructing hydroelectric projects on the western rivers, including the Chenab and Jhelum, without prior consultation .The Times of India+4Hindustan Times+4The Times of India+4Wikipedia+2DAWN+2DAWN+2
In response, Pakistan is preparing to take legal action through international forums. Options under consideration include raising the issue at the World Bank, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, or the International Court of Justice, alleging violations of the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties .Aaj English TV+2Reuters+2The Express Tribune+2The Express Tribune
The National Security Committee (NSC) of Pakistan has also decided to approach international forums over India’s violation of the IWT. The committee rejected India’s allegations against Pakistan and discussed a range of countermeasures in response to India’s unilateral actions .@EconomicTimes+3Aaj English TV+3DAWN+3
๐ International Diplomatic Efforts
The United Kingdom, in collaboration with the United States, is working to secure a lasting ceasefire between India and Pakistan and to facilitate dialogue and confidence-building measures between the two countries. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy emphasized the need for both sides to honor existing treaties, particularly expressing concern over India’s suspension of the IWT, a move considered provocative by Pakistan .Hindustan Times+2Reuters+2The Express Tribune+2
โ ๏ธ Potential Consequences
The suspension of the IWT has heightened fears of conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Pakistan has warned that any attempt by India to disrupt the flow of water from shared rivers could be considered an act of war, with the potential for nuclear escalation .Wikipedia
The situation remains volatile, with both nations taking firm stances. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, urging both sides to engage in dialogue and de-escalate tensions.
