India Declares Future Terror Attacks Will Be Treated as 'Act of War'
Top government sources declared that any future act of terror originating from Pakistan will be considered an "act of war" against India, warranting a corresponding response. This marks a significant policy shift establishing clear red lines following recent escalations. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India's "firm and uncompromising stance" against terrorism will continue despite the ceasefire agreement. Sources also indicated the Indus Waters Treaty would remain in abeyance as part of India's firm resolve against terrorism.
Unpacked:
A major factor was the April 2025 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Baisaran Valley, where 27 people were killed. The attack was claimed by a group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based organization. This incident, and India’s accusations of Pakistani backing for cross-border terrorism, heightened tensions and prompted India’s tougher stance.
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, governs water sharing between India and Pakistan over the Indus River system. Its suspension indicates a major escalation, as the treaty has been respected even during wars. It serves as a crucial mechanism for cooperation, and putting it in abeyance signals India’s willingness to leverage vital resources in response to terrorism.
Pakistan has denied involvement in cross-border terrorism, rejected India’s allegations, and responded with its own measures—such as imposing trade restrictions, closing airspace and border crossings, and suspending the Simla Agreement, which underpins bilateral relations.
India and Pakistan have a history of conflict rooted in territorial disputes, especially over Kashmir. Since 1989, there have been repeated cross-border attacks attributed to Pakistan-based groups, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Pulwama attack. These incidents have led to wars, military standoffs, and deep mistrust between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.