POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Pakistan Mulls Targeting Indian Water Bodies Amid Escalating Tensions

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif says war with India may escalate; targeting Indian water bodies also under consideration.
2025-05-07
Pakistan Mulls Targeting Indian Water Bodies Amid Escalating Tensions

Amid worsening tensions with India, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said that retaliatory targeting of Indian water bodies could be an option if hostilities continue.

Speaking to journalists at Parliament House on Thursday, Asif said the situation is "still serious and disturbing" and warned that the intensity of conflict has not subsided. "War may go further. Neelum-Jhelum was attacked — when such a situation arises, a response must be given," he said, adding, "If a strategy is approved, then Indian water bodies may also be targeted."

Asif affirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would soon take the nation and Parliament into confidence over recent developments, reiterating Pakistan’s offer for a joint investigation into the Pahalgam incident.

Commenting on Pakistan’s global position, Asif said there is no international pressure on Islamabad. “India took the first step, and we responded. If they strike again, we’ll respond again,” he stated.

🔸 Heavy Casualties in Indian Strikes

India reportedly launched missile attacks on six different locations in Pakistan, including Kotli, Ahmedpur Sharqia, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Muridke. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attacks killed 26 Pakistani citizens and injured 46 others, including women and children.

🔸 Pakistan's Retaliation

In a swift and decisive response, Pakistan’s Air Force and Army shot down five Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets, one MiG-29, and a Su-30, as well as three Indian drones. The retaliatory strikes also destroyed a major brigade headquarters and multiple Indian military posts across the Line of Control (LoC).

DG ISPR confirmed that missiles were fired from Indian territory and said that Pakistan’s security forces remain on high alert. Loud explosions were reported in Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad, causing widespread panic and power outages.

🔸 Diplomatic Context

While Pakistan has shown military restraint, it has also pursued diplomatic channels. Earlier, it briefed friendly countries and international bodies on India’s provocative actions, and called for de-escalation while asserting its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.