ISLAMABAD, Saturday, May 10, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday addressed the nation in a televised speech, hailing Pakistan’s response to recent Indian aggression as a decisive moment in the country’s defense history and expressing hope for peaceful resolution of longstanding disputes in the region.

Declaring the ceasefire a responsible and strategic move, the Prime Minister said, “For the sake of regional peace and the lives of millions, Pakistan responded positively to the ceasefire, reaffirming its commitment to peace.” He emphasized that future negotiations—on issues such as water distribution and the Jammu and Kashmir dispute—must now be pursued through dialogue and diplomacy.

Referring to the recent hostilities, PM Sharif described India’s actions, particularly in the wake of the Pahalgam incident, as “cowardly, shameful, and a blatant act of aggression.” He accused India of trying to drag Pakistan into a conflict despite Islamabad’s immediate offer for an impartial international investigation.

Despite a barrage of “baseless accusations and unprovoked attacks including drone and missile strikes on civilian areas and mosques,” the Prime Minister said Pakistan exercised restraint—until provoked beyond measure. He noted that Pakistan’s subsequent military response “spoke in a language the enemy understood well.”

“Our forces turned their air bases, installations, and stockpiles into ashes. Even Rafale couldn’t stand before the might of our defenders,” he said, praising the professionalism and valor of the armed forces.

He commended the armed forces’ swift and effective retaliation, saying their performance “would be remembered as a new chapter in modern warfare.” Praising the unwavering resolve of the nation, PM Sharif said the 240 million people of Pakistan “stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their soldiers.”

The Prime Minister paid tribute to the military leadership including General Sahir Shamshad Mirza (Chairman Joint Chiefs), General Syed Asim Munir (COAS), Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf. He reserved special praise for General Munir for his “visionary and bold leadership.”

Expressing deep gratitude for international support, PM Sharif thanked former U.S. President Donald Trump for his “sincere efforts” in facilitating the ceasefire. He also acknowledged the role played by key allies including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Türkiye, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations.

He made special mention of leaders such as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, calling them “brothers who stood by Pakistan.” He also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping and the people of China for their “historic and unwavering support.”

The Prime Minister paid tribute to Irtaza Abbas Shaheed, who embraced martyrdom during the conflict, and offered condolences to the bereaved families who lost loved ones in the aggression.

PM Sharif also appreciated the united stance of all political parties, including coalition allies and the opposition, acknowledging the leadership of former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari for their wisdom and counsel during the crisis.

He lauded the role of journalists and social media users who, through “responsible and fact-based reporting,” countered disinformation campaigns and set a professional example.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister called for national unity in driving Pakistan toward peace, progress, and prosperity. “We have emerged stronger from this crisis,” he said. “Now, all institutions and governments must focus their energies on ensuring that Pakistan rises to take its rightful place among the nations of the world.”