Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a sharp warning to India over the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, saying any threat to Pakistan's water security could escalate into a broader national security issue.

Speaking in an interview with Pakistani television channel ARY News, Asif alleged that India was interfering with water flows destined for Pakistan and using water resources as a strategic tool. He stated that if Pakistan's water security were seriously affected, the country could consider stronger responses, including military options.

The remarks come more than a year after India suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, in which 26 people were killed. New Delhi subsequently announced that the treaty would remain suspended until Pakistan takes what India describes as credible and sustained action against cross-border terrorism.

The latest comments highlight how water has become an increasingly sensitive issue in the already strained relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Pakistan Faces Growing Water Shortage

The diplomatic dispute comes at a difficult time for Pakistan, which is grappling with a severe water crisis across several regions.

According to data from Sindh's Irrigation Department, major canal systems are experiencing significant shortages. The North West Canal is reportedly facing a water deficit of more than 64 percent, while the Rice Canal has recorded a decline of nearly 38 percent in supply. The Dadu Canal is facing one of the most serious shortages, with water availability reportedly down by more than 80 percent.

Water levels at the Sukkur Barrage, a critical component of Pakistan's irrigation network, have also declined. Agricultural experts warn that prolonged shortages could affect crop production, food security, and rural livelihoods in the coming months.

The situation is particularly concerning because agriculture remains one of the largest contributors to Pakistan's economy and employs a significant portion of the country's workforce.

Understanding the Indus Waters Treaty

The Indus Waters Treaty is one of the world's most significant transboundary water-sharing agreements. Signed in Karachi on September 19, 1960, the treaty was brokered by the World Bank after nearly a decade of negotiations between India and Pakistan.

The agreement governs the use of six rivers in the Indus basin — the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. The basin spans approximately 1.12 million square kilometres across Pakistan, India, China, and Afghanistan and supports nearly 300 million people.

Under the treaty, the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — were allocated primarily to India, while Pakistan received rights over the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, subject to specific conditions.

For decades, the treaty survived wars, military standoffs, and political disputes, making it one of the most durable agreements between the two countries.

Economic Impact on Pakistan

Experts say any prolonged disruption to the treaty framework could have serious consequences for Pakistan's economy.

Nearly 90 percent of Pakistan's agricultural land depends on irrigation from the Indus river system. The sector contributes around 23 percent to the country's economy and supports the livelihoods of millions of rural residents.

In addition to agriculture, Pakistan's major hydroelectric facilities, including the Mangla and Tarbela dams, rely heavily on river inflows. Reduced water availability could lower power generation, potentially affecting industries, businesses, and employment opportunities.

Economists warn that continued uncertainty over water supplies may increase pressure on food prices, energy production, and economic growth.