ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif marked the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq by praising Pakistan’s “historic response” to India during a ceremony held at the Pakistan Monument on Sunday.
The event commemorated the conflict that began after the April 22 Pahalgam attack and ended with Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and a ceasefire on May 10.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Baber Sidhu attended the national ceremony in Islamabad.
PM Shehbaz observed a minute of silence for those martyred during the conflict and said India used the Pahalgam incident to make “baseless accusations” against Pakistan. He added that despite Pakistan offering a transparent investigation, India launched attacks on civilian areas, mosques, and innocent citizens.
“Our brave armed forces gave a historic response,” the prime minister stated, adding that Pakistan Air Force “Shaheens dominated the conflict,” forcing India to seek a ceasefire within hours. He also highlighted that India had failed to present evidence regarding Pakistan’s alleged involvement in the Pahalgam attack even after one year.
The premier declared that May 10 would now be observed annually as Youm-i-Bunyanum Marsoos. He praised Field Marshal Asim Munir for his leadership and also paid tribute to Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Baber Sidhu and the Pakistan Navy for defending the country during Marka-i-Haq.
PM Shehbaz thanked friendly countries including Saudi Arabia, China, and Türkiye for supporting Pakistan diplomatically. He also appreciated Donald Trump for his efforts toward regional peace.
President Zardari later described Marka-i-Haq as a defining chapter in Pakistan’s history, calling Pakistan’s response “calibrated and shocking.” He praised the Pakistan Air Force and Navy for defending the country and reaffirmed support for Kashmir and regional peace.
