Pakistan’s military has responded to India’s water threat with dismissive remarks, calling it “insane thinking.” The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, emphasized that India cannot block Pakistan’s water supply due to the six major rivers originating from Kashmir. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Chaudhry criticized the Indian government and media for spreading false narratives following the Phalgham incident, where India accused Pakistan of involvement.
The ISPR chief reiterated that Kashmir remains an international dispute involving Pakistan, India, and China. He emphasized the need to resolve the issue through UN resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people. Chaudhry also challenged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks about withholding water from Pakistan, stating that it is not feasible to cut off water for 240 million people.
Despite the tensions between the two countries, Pakistan has not deployed its full strength of conventional forces, with many still engaged in anti-terrorism operations. The ISPR chief highlighted the lack of evidence provided by India to support its claims of Pakistani involvement in various attacks. He also denied allegations of Pakistan’s role in an attack on the Golden Temple, emphasizing the country’s respect for religious sites and its commitment to peace.
The military spokesperson praised the coordination between Pakistan’s Army, Navy, and Air Force, citing the professional excellence displayed during recent aerial engagements. He commended the performance of various fighter jets and missiles, noting that the campaign would be studied in military colleges for years to come. Despite global concerns about escalation between the nuclear-armed nations, Chaudhry emphasized Pakistan’s exercise of wisdom and restraint to avoid a wider conflict.
Chaudhry called on India to change its “war-obsessed political mindset” and address systemic oppression of minorities within its borders. He linked rising domestic extremism in India to the Hindutva ideology, criticizing India for externalizing its internal issues by blaming Pakistan. The ISPR chief reaffirmed Pakistan’s strategic alliance with China, describing it as a multi-decade partnership based on mutual respect and regional stability.
In conclusion, the ISPR Director General emphasized the importance of true peace depending on India’s ability to address internal issues and embrace a more inclusive approach towards its minority populations. Despite the ongoing tensions, Pakistan remains committed to diplomatic resolutions and regional stability in the face of external threats.
