Pakistan open to talks but won’t beg India for peace: DPM Dar

Islamabad – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has stated that Pakistan is ready for dialogue with India but is not desperate for it. Speaking during a press briefing in Islamabad, he said Pakistan wants a comprehensive discussion that includes terrorism, the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), and other core issues.

Dar warned that any attempt by India to block or divert Pakistan’s share of water under the Indus Waters Treaty would be considered an act of war. He stressed that the treaty cannot be suspended or changed under international law, and any such move would violate Pakistan’s rights and sovereignty.

The tension between both countries intensified after India blamed Pakistan for an attack on tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India responded with missile strikes inside Pakistani territory, resulting in civilian and military casualties. Pakistan replied with precise counter-attacks, which led to a brief but deadly conflict.

According to Dar, the Pakistan Air Force shot down six Indian fighter jets and one drone during the standoff. The conflict, which lasted 87 hours, ended through a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. While the ceasefire is currently holding, Dar criticized Indian politicians for increasing war-like rhetoric before their elections.

Dar added that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts gained global support. A delegation led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari visited key countries to present Pakistan’s position. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also visited regional allies to thank them for their support during the crisis.

Lastly, Dar announced that Pakistan will assume the presidency of the United Nations Security Council next month. The focus will be on promoting global peace through multilateralism and peaceful conflict resolution — a clear message that Pakistan supports diplomacy, not war.