A leading U.S. journal, The National Interest, has expressed full support for Pakistan’s stance on India’s recent steps affecting the Indus Waters Treaty.

Experts warn that India’s actions could heighten regional tensions and pose serious humanitarian and legal challenges.

According to The National Interest, India’s suspension of key provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty, including the Dulhasti Stage II project, violates the treaty and international law. The journal emphasized that India’s withholding of water data further undermines transparency and cooperative water management between the two countries.

Water experts cited by the journal warned that India’s approach risks making water a strategic weapon, potentially affecting millions of people in Pakistan and South Asia.

Legal perspective

The National Interest highlighted that the International Court of Arbitration has made it clear that India cannot unilaterally suspend the treaty. India is legally obliged to provide water from the western rivers to Pakistan, ensuring food security and sustainable water supply in the region.

The U.S. journal also noted that attempts to manipulate water resources for strategic or weaponization purposes are unacceptable under international law.

Implications for regional security

Experts warned that the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could escalate tensions in South Asia, aggravate the ongoing water crisis, and pose a major humanitarian threat. They stressed that preserving the treaty is essential for maintaining peace, stability, and food security in the region.

The National Interest called on India to respect its legal obligations and cooperate fully with Pakistan to ensure equitable water distribution from the western rivers.