Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared that every drop of Pakistan’s water is a Pakistan water red line, warning India that Islamabad will respond directly if New Delhi does not change its course.
Addressing the inauguration of the Victory Monument in Islamabad, Shehbaz said Pakistan wanted peace rather than war but warned that its desire for peace should not be mistaken for weakness. He also accused India of unilaterally suspending the Indus Waters Treaty.
The prime minister said the monument symbolised the strength of the Pakistan Armed Forces and paid tribute to the military leadership and personnel for what he described as a successful defence of the country during the recent conflict.
Shehbaz stressed that national unity was essential for Pakistan’s security and stability. He said no power could defeat a united nation and urged citizens to ensure that political differences did not turn into hostility or undermine national cohesion.
Reiterating the Pakistan water red line, the prime minister said the country would protect its water resources and national interests. He maintained that Pakistan had no desire for another war but would not remain passive if its vital interests were threatened.
Shehbaz also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic role in regional affairs, saying Islamabad had contributed to efforts to reduce tensions between the United States and Iran. He welcomed Turkiye’s participation in the Makkah defence agreement and described it as a potential symbol of peace and stability in the Middle East.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian cause and Kashmiris and urged Afghanistan’s government to prevent its territory from being used for terrorism. He also thanked US President Donald Trump for helping facilitate the Pakistan-India ceasefire, saying the move had helped save many lives and expressing hope for stronger Pakistan-US relations.
