New Delhi, June 4, 2025: Former Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari faced an awkward moment during a media interaction at the United Nations when he was sharply countered by a veteran US journalist after making controversial remarks about India. Bhutto, who currently serves as a Member of the Pakistan National Assembly and chairs the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), alleged that the recent Pahalgam terror attack was being used to “demonise Muslims in India.”
However, the statement was immediately challenged by renowned journalist Ahmed Fathi, who cited the presence of Muslim Indian military officers—including the widely respected Colonel Sofiya Qureshi—as evidence contradicting Bhutto’s narrative.
Journalist Cites Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Silences Bhutto
During the media briefing, Fathi responded to Bhutto’s claim by stating, “Sir, I have watched the briefings on both sides, and as far as I recall, there were Muslim Indian military officers who were conducting briefings on the Indian side.” The pointed reference to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who has been lauded for her leadership during Operation Sindoor, left Bhutto visibly cornered.
Initially acknowledging the correctness of the observation, Bhutto attempted to regain footing by interrupting the journalist with a lengthy rant filled with baseless accusations against India. However, Fathi’s statement had already made its impact, exposing the flaws in Bhutto’s claims.
Bhutto’s Kashmir Rhetoric Falls Flat
In the same interaction, Bhutto admitted that Pakistan’s efforts to internationalise the Kashmir issue have met significant roadblocks. He remarked, “As far as the hurdles we face within the UN and in general, as far as the Kashmir cause is concerned, that still exists.”
Bhutto is currently leading a Pakistani delegation abroad, part of Islamabad’s international outreach efforts following India’s diplomatic offensive after the Pahalgam attack.
Backlash Over Bilawal’s Indus Waters Threat
Bhutto had earlier drawn severe criticism for a provocative statement in response to India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. He said, “The Indus is ours and will remain ours—either our water will flow through it, or their blood.”
His comments were condemned both domestically and internationally. Prominent Indian political figure Asaduddin Owaisi, MP from Hyderabad and AIMIM leader, lashed out, reminding Bhutto of his own family’s tragic history. “He should remember who killed his mother and grandfather. Terrorism killed his mother, Benazir Bhutto. If he doesn’t understand that, what sense will he make of what’s happening today?” Owaisi remarked.
Conclusion
Bilawal Bhutto’s comments at the UN have once again spotlighted his controversial rhetoric, drawing sharp rebuttals from both journalists and political leaders. As Pakistan attempts to revive its global narrative on Kashmir and regional conflicts, its representatives continue to face growing skepticism and resistance.
