May 16, 2025 | Islamabad, Pakistan
In a significant show of national solidarity and military pride, Pakistan observed Youm-e-Tashakur on Friday amid similar tensions with neighbouring India. The occasion marked a pause in the recent four-day-long military standoff between the two countries that saw drone incursions and missile bombardment along the border.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, addressing the nation and the armed forces during the celebrations, reaffirmed Pakistan’s peaceful intentions but strongly emphasised the country’s right to defend itself in the face of aggression. “Pakistan is a peaceful country,” he said during the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Prime Minister’s residence in Islamabad, “but it reserves the right to give an appropriate response to defend its sovereignty.”
The day began with ceremonial displays of patriotism, including a 31-gun salute in the capital Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in all provincial capitals. Throughout the country, special prayers were offered for peace, and rallies were organised to express solidarity with the Pakistani military. National flags adorned buildings, and the mood remained defiant yet proud as people gathered to honour the country’s armed forces.
This year’s Youm-e-Tashakur was particularly significant, being the second such observance after the latest ceasefire agreement with India. The previous celebration was held just days earlier, on Sunday, with similar expressions of military support and national unity.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif lauded the armed forces for what he described as an “appropriate and effective response” during the recent hostilities with India. He claimed that the actions of the military had “written a golden chapter in the history of Pakistan’s defence,” acknowledging the sacrifices made by the troops in safeguarding national interests.
In a poignant display of respect, Sharif, along with Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Army Chief General Asim Munir, and Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, visited the home of Squadron Leader Usman Yusuf, who was killed during the Indian air strikes. Sharif offered condolences to the bereaved family, calling Yusuf a “national hero,” and led prayers for the fallen airman. Later, the delegation visited the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalpindi to meet with soldiers and civilians injured in the recent attacks.
President Asif Ali Zardari also spoke to the nation, reminding Pakistan of its unbending position on national security.
“Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity, or vital national interests,” declared President Zardari, reinforcing the central message of the day: national unity in the face of external threats.
At the same time, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar sought to address international concerns by holding discussions with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
Witnesses noted that while Youm-e-Tashakur was framed as a display of national resolve and unity, it also communicated a clear message to the world: Pakistan is dedicated to peace but is also unrelenting in asserting its sovereignty and independence. The coordinated actions of high level civilian and military leaders, the emotional rounds of visits to the families of the martyrs, and the signifying karate and gun salutes – created a mixture of grief and assertive patriotism.
As India and Pakistan hold a fragile peace, observance of Youm-e-Tashakur demonstrates the fragility in South Asian geopolitics and the incredible dangers of military conflict between two nuclear powers.
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