Pakistan threatens war against India amid water crisis, escalates dispute over Indus Water Treaty

June 22, 2026

New Delhi: Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has threatened India with war over the issue of water security. His statement comes at a time when India has made it clear that its decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty remains in place.

‘We will wage war if water security is threatened’

Speaking to ARY News, Khawaja Asif said that water is a vital part of Pakistan’s national security and that Pakistan could resort to war against India if the country’s water security is threatened. He also alleged that India is using water resources as a tool of pressure, though he did not provide any concrete evidence to support his allegations.

Why is the Indus Water Treaty suspended?

India decided to suspend the 1960 Indus Water Treaty in April 2025 after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. This attack killed 26 people. New Delhi says the treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan takes concrete and credible action against cross-border terrorism.

Deepening Water Crisis in Pakistan

Experts believe that Pakistan’s growing water crisis is not solely the result of external factors, but also the result of years of mismanagement and weak water resources infrastructure.

The water crisis has become severe in many parts of the country, especially in Sindh and Balochistan provinces. According to government data, major canals in Sindh have recorded severe water shortages, affecting agriculture and the local economy.

Growing Concerns of Economic Crisis

Amid the continued decline in water levels and growing disputes over internal water distribution, local leaders have warned of serious economic consequences if the situation does not improve. Meanwhile, tensions remain high between India and Pakistan over the water dispute.