Dialogue Possible, Not a Priority: Pakistan’s Dar on India Ties

Pakistan Open to Dialogue with India, But Not Desperate: Ishaq Dar Warns Against Water War, Hails Diplomatic Wins

By DTD- On Jun 4, 2025

ISLAMABAD – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said Pakistan remains open to dialogue with India, but is not desperate for engagement, underscoring the need for a comprehensive process that addresses all core issues — including terrorism and the Indus Waters Treaty.

Speaking at a press briefing in Islamabad on Wednesday, Dar issued a stern warning to New Delhi, stating that any attempt by India to divert or block Pakistan’s water would be considered an “act of war.” He emphasized that under international law, the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be suspended or amended unilaterally.

The minister’s remarks come in the wake of heightened tensions following India’s suspension of the treaty and missile strikes inside Pakistani territory. India claimed the strikes targeted “terrorist bases” following an attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which it blamed on Pakistan. However, the missile attacks resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, as well as Pakistani military personnel.

Pakistan responded with what Dar described as “precision military strikes” targeting Indian defence infrastructure. The exchange escalated into the deadliest conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours in decades. Dar confirmed that the Pakistan Air Force downed six Indian fighter jets and one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during the 87-hour conflict, which was ultimately halted through a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.

“The ceasefire is holding,” Dar noted, “but Indian leaders continue to escalate political rhetoric, particularly ahead of their general elections.” He said India’s so-called “new normal” had collapsed, and the world had seen the limits of New Delhi’s military dominance.

Dar credited Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach for garnering significant international support. He revealed that a delegation led by Pakistan Peoples Party leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had been dispatched to the United States, United Kingdom, and United Nations to counter India’s narrative and present Pakistan’s position globally.

“The delegation reported that Pakistan’s stance was received positively at all levels,” Dar said, adding that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also undertaken visits to Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan to express gratitude for their support during the conflict. The prime minister is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia tomorrow for the same purpose.

In a significant diplomatic milestone, Dar announced that Pakistan will assume the presidency of the United Nations Security Council next month. During its tenure, Pakistan will focus on the theme: “Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes.”