At a United Nations event in New York, experts warned that India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) could trigger a humanitarian disaster. The event, hosted by Pakistan’s UN Mission and the Muslim-American Leadership Alliance, focused on the theme: “Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan’s Water Crisis: Challenges and the Way Forward.” Speakers said India’s unilateral action violates international law and risks food insecurity, displacement, and conflict in the region.
India suspended its IWT obligations after a deadly attack in occupied Kashmir in April, which it blamed on Pakistan. However, Pakistan called India’s move an “act of war” and insists the treaty remains legally binding. Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad called the suspension an example of “weaponising water,” warning of its effects on peace and stability. He stressed that no country has the right to abandon the treaty unilaterally.
Press Release
Speakers at the UN High-Level Event Warn Against Weaponisation of Water
United Nations, September 12, 2025: United Nations, September 12, 2025: Speakers at a high-level event arranged jointly by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN and the Muslim-American… pic.twitter.com/ky2G1AY0NB
— Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanUN_NY) September 12, 2025
Legal experts and engineers at the event highlighted the severe impact of India withholding hydrological data. Supreme Court lawyer Dawood Ghazanavi said lack of timely information worsened recent floods in Punjab, causing mass displacement. He emphasized that nearly 45% of Pakistan’s livelihoods depend on the Indus River, making any disruption a threat to survival. He urged global institutions like the World Bank and UN to intervene.
Participants agreed that India’s actions threaten not only Pakistan but also regional stability. Legal consultant Kishor Uprety stated the IWT has no exit clause, and terrorism allegations cannot justify suspension. Dr. Masood Ahmad, a former World Bank specialist, urged Pakistan to boost infrastructure and crisis response capacity. All speakers warned that India’s dam projects and unilateral steps could collapse a decades-old framework of water cooperation.
In closing remarks, Pakistan’s Deputy UN Ambassador Usman Jadoon said denying water access disproportionately hurts women, children, and the poor. He called for strict adherence to the treaty to avoid humanitarian fallout. Speakers insisted the treaty is a legal obligation, not a political option. As climate change intensifies water insecurity, the Indus Waters Treaty remains vital for peace, survival, and human dignity in South Asia.