New york: Speakers at a high-level event arranged jointly by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN and the Muslim American Leadership Alliance (MALA) in New York have stated that the Indian move to unilaterally hold the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance has raised serious doubts about the sanctity of international commitments. They termed the Indian action as a grave violation of international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law.

According to Radio Pakistan, in his keynote speech, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad warned against the weaponization of water, highlighting the serious consequences it could have on regional peace and stability. He emphasized the need for respecting international agreements to maintain harmony and prevent conflict in the region.

Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, stressed that upholding and revitalizing the Treaty requires collective action. He pointed out that the United Nations system, the World Bank, and civil society all have roles to play in reinforcing its implementation, facilitating dialogue, and promoting cooperative solutions. He urged these entities to work together to address the challenges posed by India's decision and ensure the Treaty remains a tool for peace and cooperation.