India Faces Diplomatic Setback as World Bank Reaffirms Binding Nature of Indus Waters Treaty

ISLAMABAD – In a major diplomatic blow to India, the World Bank has taken a clear stance on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), declaring that the agreement cannot be unilaterally suspended or terminated.

India had announced the suspension of the treaty following the controversial Pahalgam Falls operation, triggering international concern. However, in a recent interview with CNBC, World Bank President Ajay Banga clarified that the treaty does not contain any provision allowing for unilateral suspension.

“The Indus Waters Treaty can only be modified or terminated with the mutual consent of both parties,” Banga stated, underlining the treaty’s enduring legal framework.

He further emphasized that the World Bank’s role in the agreement is primarily that of a facilitator, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to upholding its responsibilities under the treaty.

Defense experts in Pakistan have hailed the World Bank’s clear position as a significant diplomatic victory, asserting that India’s attempt to unilaterally revoke the treaty violates international law and has now been publicly rejected.

“The World Bank president’s remarks confirm that India cannot walk away from the treaty on its own. This invalidates India’s narrative and exposes its aggressive intentions,” said defense analysts.

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They added that any unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty would constitute a serious breach of international legal norms, and the latest statement has effectively dismantled India’s position.

With the World Bank reaffirming the treaty’s legal sanctity, experts believe India’s efforts to undermine it have failed, marking a crucial moment in the ongoing water-sharing dispute between the two countries.