Pakistani Defense Minister’s Controversial Statement: Floodwater as a Blessing

Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, has drawn criticism for his remarks regarding the devastating floods affecting the country. In response to questions about relief efforts, Asif suggested that Pakistanis should view the floodwater as a blessing and store it in their homes. He stated that the global water crisis makes the floods a fortunate coincidence for Pakistan, urging people to consider it a gift from Allah rather than a disaster. Addressing concerns about road blockades in some provinces, Asif advised citizens to prioritize water storage instead of protesting. He claimed that a large dam for water storage is currently unfeasible, recommending people store the water in their homes. He added that the government lacks a system to prevent floods, blaming local governments for the situation, citing encroachment and altered water pathways as contributing factors. The floods have directly affected approximately 2 million people in Punjab province, with 41 fatalities reported there. Across Pakistan, the floods have claimed around 850 lives.