Following India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Embassy in Washington stated that the agreement was originally signed in a spirit of goodwill and cooperation. However, it emphasized that Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism has undermined this foundation.
In a post on X, addressing media queries, the Indian Embassy noted, “The Indus Waters Treaty was signed by India and Pakistan in 1960 with the intent of fostering goodwill and friendship.” It added, “Pakistan’s persistent, state-sponsored terrorism against India has severely eroded that intent. India cannot be expected to uphold cooperation with a country responsible for the loss of innocent civilian lives.”
The suspension of the treaty was among several strong measures announced by the Ministry of External Affairs following the deadly Pahalgam attack, in which 26 people were killed. The government said the treaty would remain in abeyance “until Pakistan credibly and irreversibly ends its support for cross-border terrorism.”
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed after nine years of negotiations brokered by the World Bank, has long been regarded as a model for international water-sharing agreements. It allocates the three western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab — to Pakistan, and the three eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — to India, while allowing both countries limited use of the rivers assigned to the other.
Despite being lauded as one of the world’s most successful water treaties — even amid wars and political tensions — India has now moved to suspend its implementation, citing Pakistan’s hostile actions and continued support for terrorism.
