Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that India’s actions concerning the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) could lay the foundation for the first nuclear war over water. Speaking at the Middle East Institute in Washington, Bilawal said India’s suspension of the IWT following the April 22 Pahalgam attack poses an existential threat to Pakistan.
He emphasized that cutting off Pakistan’s water supply would be seen as an act of war and called on the US and global powers to prevent India from violating international agreements. “We want peace, not war—but we will fight for our water and survival,” Bilawal said.
Pakistan, in response to India’s actions, has also suspended all bilateral agreements, closed the Wagah border, and halted trade with India. A high-level Pakistani delegation, including Bilawal, former foreign ministers, and senior envoys, is engaging with US, UK, and EU officials to present Pakistan’s position. Bilawal said peace talks with India are only possible if it first honors existing treaties. He criticized Indian PM Narendra Modi’s administration for rejecting cooperation on terrorism and diplomacy, including US mediation offers.
In meetings with US lawmakers, including Ilhan Omar and Chris Van Hollen, the delegation highlighted concerns over Kashmir, water rights, and India’s alleged aggression. Bilawal praised US President Donald Trump’s role in helping de-escalate recent tensions.
Separately, PM Shehbaz Sharif credited Trump for facilitating a ceasefire and accused India of a false-flag operation in Pahalgam. He confirmed Pakistan’s defensive action after Indian strikes killed 33 civilians and urged for an impartial probe.