ISLAMABAD, Thursday, May 15, 2025 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that any aggression against the homeland would be responded to with full force.

His remarks came in a message issued on the eve of Youm-e-Tashakur (Thanksgiving Day), being observed nationwide on Friday to commemorate Pakistan’s military victory over India during the recently concluded Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.

“It is a proud moment for the entire nation as we celebrate the success of our armed forces in repelling unprovoked Indian aggression,” President Zardari said. “I thank Almighty Allah for granting us this victory in a critical hour.”

He lauded the bravery and professionalism of the Armed Forces, and paid tribute to the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf. “This triumph is not just for our forces—it belongs to every Pakistani who stood united, like a fortified wall, against the enemy,” he added.

The President stressed that Pakistan is a peace-loving country with no hostile intentions but warned that peace should never be mistaken for weakness. “Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interests. Any aggression will be met with full force,” he said.

He also denounced India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting that Pakistan would use all elements of national power to protect its water rights. “Our patience and operational effectiveness compelled the enemy to cease its aggression. We stood firm, stood united, and emerged with dignity,” he stated.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a separate message marking Thanksgiving Day, paid rich tribute to the martyrs and soldiers who led the nation to victory in what he called Marka-e-Haq (Battle of Truth).

“The entire country is observing Youm-e-Tashakur to thank Almighty Allah for the resounding success achieved against India’s open provocation,” he said. “When the enemy struck during the midnight hours of May 6 and 7, claiming innocent lives, we were left with no option but to respond—and we did so with full strength.”

The Prime Minister said the world witnessed Pakistan’s rapid and effective military response. “In just a few hours, an adversary far larger in size was brought to its knees. Indian warplanes, including their Rafales, became symbols of defeat.”

Describing the operation as a fight against extremism and hate-based ideologies, he said the success was a collective achievement of Pakistan’s valiant forces and its proud, resilient people.

He extended heartfelt thanks to General Asim Munir for his strategic leadership, praised the precision of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Babar’s “Shaheens,” and commended Admiral Naveed Ashraf for safeguarding Pakistan’s maritime frontiers. He also acknowledged the historic unity displayed by the country’s political leadership and Parliament.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, outlining the details of Friday’s national observance, said the entire country would come together in prayer and celebration of what he termed a “historic military and moral victory.”

He said the day would begin with gun salutes, followed by special Friday prayers across the country for the nation’s prosperity and for the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq. “Guard-changing ceremonies will be held at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal, and tributes will be paid at the graves of national heroes and fallen soldiers,” he added.

The main event will take place in Islamabad, led by Prime Minister Sharif and attended by the military leadership and federal ministers.

Minister Tarar urged citizens to hoist the national flag atop their homes and take part in the nationwide show of unity and gratitude. “This is a time to honour our heroes and reaffirm our resolve to stand united in the face of any threat,” he said.

The observance of Youm-e-Tashakur not only marks a military victory but also reinforces a message of national resilience and unity in the face of external aggression.