Amidst ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently acknowledged former US President Donald Trump for his “timely intervention” during a military standoff in May 2025. Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Sharif emphasized that Trump’s involvement was crucial in de-escalating a situation that risked a wider conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. He urged South Asia to avoid such perilous situations in the future.
The Prime Minister also addressed the contentious issue of the Indus Waters Treaty, criticizing India for placing the 1960 agreement in abeyance. Sharif declared that any actions to impede or divert Pakistan’s share of the Indus River waters would be considered an “act of war.” He underscored the treaty’s significance for Pakistan and the surrounding region, arguing that India’s unilateral move lacked legal grounding and was contrary to international legal developments supporting Pakistan’s stance.
India, however, refuted claims of third-party intervention in the ceasefire, maintaining that the resolution was reached through direct communication between the two countries. In its right of reply at the UN, India accused Pakistan of perpetuating cross-border terrorism, warning that such actions would bear consequences. India’s representative reiterated their commitment to defending against terrorism and dismissed Pakistan’s allegations regarding the water-sharing dispute.
Sharif defended Pakistan’s military actions during the confrontation, asserting the country’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. He lauded the performance of Pakistan’s armed forces in managing the conflict. Meanwhile, India has consistently rejected Pakistan’s accusations, arguing that repeated claims do not alter the reality of cross-border terrorism.
The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a key agreement between India and Pakistan, governs the distribution and use of the waters from the Indus river system. The current discord reflects broader tensions between the two nations, with water rights and anti-terrorism measures remaining at the forefront of their disputes.