Echoes of Six Rivers, Thunder of War! Bilawal’s Words Rattle Delhi!

International News: The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, has long been considered a rare example of cooperation between India and Pakistan. But recent hostilities, especially following the Pahalgam terror attack in April, prompted India to declare its indefinite suspension of the agreement. Bilawal Bhutto, former foreign minister and PPP leader, reacted with strong words. Addressing the Parliament, he claimed India's actions violate international law and warned that Pakistan "would take water from all six rivers" if its rightful share isn’t granted. "Either share fairly or face the consequences," he said, referencing rivers like Indus, Chenab, Jhelum, Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej.

India’s Bold Move Post-Terror Attack

India’s suspension came after a deadly terrorist strike in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. Union Home Minister had announced that the attack “crossed all red lines,” and India would respond not only militarily but diplomatically and economically. Redirecting Indus water through new infrastructure towards Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh was seen as a direct pressure tactic on Pakistan, which heavily depends on the water for agriculture. 

Bilawal’s Statement Sparks Global Concerns

Bilawal’s speech stirred international attention, especially as he stated, “If India blocks our water, we will be forced into another war.” The comment was perceived not only as political grandstanding but a dangerous provocation at a time of heightened tensions. He also criticized India’s role in global diplomacy, accusing it of “sabotaging Pakistan’s FATF standing” and using terrorism as a political narrative to isolate Pakistan.

Global Calls for Calm Rise

Western powers including the US and UK, while not directly intervening, have advised both nations to avoid escalation. The UN has also reportedly begun informal consultations behind closed doors, fearing a water conflict between two nuclear nations. Despite tensions, there are voices within both countries advocating for dialogue, suggesting a possible revival of backchannel talks.

Kashmir Mentioned Again on Global Stage

Bilawal also reignited the Kashmir issue in his speech, referencing past comments by international leaders about third-party mediation. Though India maintains Kashmir as an internal matter, Pakistan continues to project it globally as a humanitarian and territorial dispute. The re-emergence of Kashmir in water-related discussions signals the growing interlinkage of regional flashpoints.