Thu Apr 24 11:54:19 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Declares “Act of War” After India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty

**Islamabad, Pakistan –** Pakistan has declared any attempt by India to halt the flow of Indus River water an “act of war,” following India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. The announcement, made Thursday by Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) after an emergency meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comes in the wake of a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India.

The NSC strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack but rejected India’s implied accusation of Pakistani involvement, citing a lack of credible evidence. The committee viewed India’s actions as unilateral, unjust, and politically motivated. In response, Pakistan has taken a series of retaliatory measures, including:

* **Suspension of all bilateral agreements with India:** This includes the Simla Agreement.
* **Closure of the Wagah border crossing:** All cross-border transit from India is suspended, except for those with valid endorsements who must return by April 30th.
* **Suspension of all visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES):** An exception is made for Sikh pilgrims. Other Indian nationals in Pakistan are ordered to leave within 48 hours.
* **Declaration of Indian defense, naval, and air advisors in Islamabad as *persona non grata*:** They must leave by April 30th. The strength of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad will be reduced to 30 diplomats and staff.
* **Closure of Pakistani airspace to all Indian-owned or operated airlines:** All trade with India, including transit trade, is suspended.

The NSC emphasized that Kashmir remains a disputed territory and reiterated Pakistan’s support for the right of self-determination for Kashmiris. The committee highlighted what it called India’s continued oppression of Kashmiris and minorities, particularly Muslims. Pakistan also accused India of state-sponsored terrorism and presented counter-evidence.

The NSC’s statement warned that Pakistan’s armed forces are prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The move significantly escalates tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

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