Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared on Thursday that the 1972 Simla Agreement between Pakistan and India has lost its “sanctity” following New Delhi’s recent unilateral decisions, including its attempt to withdraw from the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared on Thursday that the 1972 Simla Agreement between Pakistan and India has lost its “sanctity” following New Delhi’s recent unilateral decisions, including its attempt to withdraw from the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
India’s Unilateral Moves Undermine Bilateral Framework
In an interview with Geo News, Asif said the Simla Agreement—once a cornerstone of Pakistan-India diplomacy—was a strictly bilateral pact. He warned that without mutual commitment, the Line of Control (LoC) could revert to a mere ceasefire line. “No third party or the World Bank was involved. If the agreement fails, it changes the regional dynamics,” he noted.
Military Clashes Erupt After IIOJK Incident
Asif’s comments followed heightened tensions after a deadly attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) last month, which left 26 tourists dead. India blamed Pakistan without providing evidence, prompting large-scale retaliation by Pakistan under “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.” The Pakistani military claims to have downed six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and destroyed numerous drones. The hostilities ended on May 10 after a US-brokered ceasefire.
Indus Waters Treaty Still Legally Binding
Responding to India’s claim to unilaterally revoke the IWT, Asif clarified that international treaties like the IWT cannot be terminated by one party alone. “India cannot obstruct water flow at will,” he stated, emphasizing the treaty’s legal safeguards and international oversight.
Pakistan Launches Diplomatic Offensive
In response, Islamabad has initiated a global diplomatic campaign to present its stance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assigned PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to lead a high-profile delegation to major global capitals and the United Nations. The delegation includes federal ministers, senior diplomats, and former ambassadors, all tasked with countering Indian narratives and advocating for regional peace.
