Trade with India, Wagah Border, and Airspace Closed, Water Blocking Will Be Considered an Act of War: National Security Committee

Islamabad (Web Desk) In response to India's water aggression and other actions, Pakistan has rejected India's unilateral announcement regarding the Indus Waters Treaty and stated that if Pakistan's water resources are blocked, it will be considered an act of war.

The National Security Committee meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, was attended by both civil and military leadership.

The National Security Committee rejected India's announcement to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and stated that water is Pakistan's crucial national interest and a lifeline for 240 million Pakistanis. Pakistan will protect its lifeline at any cost, and if Pakistan's water resources are blocked or diverted, it will be considered an act of war.

According to the communiqué, Pakistan reserves the right to suspend all bilateral agreements with India, including the Shimla Agreement. All land movement from India through the Wagah Border will be suspended. India’s citizens who were granted visas under the SAARC visa exemption scheme will have their visas revoked, and they will be instructed to leave the country within 48 hours. However, Sikh pilgrims currently in Pakistan under this scheme will be exempted.

The communiqué also stated that Indian defense, naval, and air advisers in Islamabad have been declared undesirable persons and instructed to leave the country by April 30. The positions held by them at the Indian High Commission will be considered terminated, and the supporting staff associated with them will also be ordered to return to India.

It was stated that the number of Indian diplomats at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad will be limited to 30, effective from April 30. All Indian flights will immediately be banned from using Pakistani airspace, and all trade with India will be suspended.

The National Security Committee’s communiqué also noted that Pakistan will respond vigorously to India’s actions. The Pakistan Army is fully prepared to counter any aggressive move and has the capability to defend the country.