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Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership has ordered the swift construction of a dam on the Kunar River, a key water source flowing into Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The directive, issued by Supreme Leader Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, aims to harness hydroelectric power and assert Afghanistan’s control over its water resources.
Pakistan views this move with alarm, as the Kunar River is vital for irrigation in its border regions. The absence of a formal water-sharing treaty between the two nations exacerbates concerns over potential water shortages.
In response, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has warned of the possibility of “open war” if peace negotiations fail, highlighting the fragile state of bilateral relations.
Prominent Pakistani journalist Najam Sethi has further escalated tensions, stating that Pakistan may resort to nuclear weapons if its water supply is threatened, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The Kunar Dam project, if completed, could significantly impact water availability in Pakistan’s border areas, potentially leading to a humanitarian crisis. The international community is closely monitoring developments, urging both nations to engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
