GUWAHATI: With diplomatic tensions escalating after the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, Pakistan responded to India’s recent measures on Thursday, April 24, by issuing a series of retaliatory steps.
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In a statement released following a high-level meeting of its National Security Committee, Islamabad not only mirrored India’s recent diplomatic and strategic decisions but also issued a direct warning regarding the Simla Agreement — a move that could raise questions about the current status of the Line of Control (LoC).
The Simla Agreement, signed in 1972 after the India-Pakistan war of 1971, forms the basis for the recognition of the LoC between the two countries. Pakistan’s statement warned that it would “hold all bilateral agreements with India including but not limited to the Simla Agreement in abeyance” until India ceased its “manifested behaviour of fomenting terrorism” inside Pakistan.
“Pakistan vehemently rejects the Indian announcement to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance,” the committee stated. “The Treaty is a binding international agreement brokered by the World Bank and contains no provision for unilateral suspension. Water is a Vital National Interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people and its availability will be safeguarded at all costs. Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power.” The Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers flowing from India are vital for Pakistan’s water security, and any disruption could severely impact millions already facing shortages.
Islamabad also announced the suspension of permits issued to Indians under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, echoing India’s decision from the previous day. It also decided to reduce the strength of Indian diplomatic personnel at its High Commission to 30.
Further decisions announced by Pakistan mirror the immediate closure of the Wagah border crossing for all Indian transit, and a 48-hour deadline for Indian nationals in Pakistan under SAARC visas to exit, and closure of airspace to Indian airlines. All trade with India, including via third countries through Pakistan, has also been suspended.
India has not yet issued an official response to Pakistan’s warnings or its threat regarding the Simla Agreement.
