Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir issued a stern warning that any future hostile action against Pakistan would result in “far-reaching and painful consequences.” This statement was made as the nation observed the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, commemorating Pakistan’s victory in the May conflict with India.
Addressing a special ceremony at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, Field Marshal Munir recalled the significant success achieved by Pakistan in Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, attributing it to divine support. He emphasized that the enemy suffered a humiliating defeat during the confrontation. The ceremony included floral wreaths laid at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs’ Monument) by CDF Munir, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu, and Admiral Ashraf, while contingents from the army, air force, and navy presented a ceremonial salute.
The conflict, which took place from May 6-7 last year, began with an unprovoked Indian attack following an assault on tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. During the intense 87-hour war, Pakistan successfully downed eight Indian fighter jets, including advanced French-made Rafale aircraft, along with numerous drones. The hostilities concluded on May 10 with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.
In his remarks, CDF Munir described the day as a source of national pride, reflecting Pakistan’s strength, unity, and determination in overcoming challenges. He framed Marka-e-Haq not just as a military conflict but as a decisive ideological battle where truth ultimately prevailed. He noted that the enemy’s attempt to test Pakistan’s resolve and dignity over those days failed.
Field Marshal Munir praised the exceptional victory achieved through unity, resolve, and professional competence, stating that falsehood was defeated while Pakistan emerged triumphant with Allah’s blessings. He explained that India’s ambitions to impose military aggression and diplomatic isolation on Pakistan were unrealistic and beyond its capabilities. Pakistan, he asserted, would never allow these designs to come to fruition.
The army chief also highlighted the unwavering spirit of the Pakistani people, who stood firmly in defense of their homeland during the conflict. He paid homage to the unarmed civilians, including women, elderly, and children, who lost their lives during Marka-e-Haq, describing their sacrifices as a sacred trust. Pakistan sees its strength as a responsibility and considers its success a blessing from Allah.
Reaffirming the nation’s stance, Field Marshal Munir declared there would be no compromise on Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity. He added that the victory was achieved not only on the battlefield but also nationally across various sectors. He commended the air force personnel, called “Shaheens,” for their exemplary role in the longest and most decisive modern war, where they shot down enemy advanced warplanes and destroyed installations.
the CDF, India suffered significant human and financial losses during the conflict and will continue to bear the consequences in the future. He detailed that Pakistan’s strategic missile and Shaheen systems successfully struck over 26 enemy military targets. He affirmed that Pakistan’s defense capabilities are now fully impregnable against any external threat.
Reflecting on the past year, Field Marshal Munir noted Pakistan’s enhanced national prestige and growing global recognition, with the country enjoying more international friends than ever before. He highlighted a strategic mutual defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing it as a historic advancement in mutual security and diplomacy.
In a significant development, the field marshal mentioned Pakistan’s role in facilitating historic peace talks between the United States and Iran, showcasing the country’s effective, responsible, and neutral diplomacy. He noted that both nations have entrusted Pakistan with this delicate task, expressing gratitude from their leadership, including the US President.
Field Marshal Munir also pointed out that India, having dismissed conventional warfare, is now resorting to terrorism. He called on Afghanistan to eliminate terrorist camps and safe havens within its territory. He praised the courage of Pakistani citizens, armed forces, and law enforcement agencies, especially those operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, vowing to avenge every innocent life lost. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s fight against terrorism will persist until the last terrorist is eliminated.
On the Kashmir issue, the CDF emphasized that Pakistan’s story is incomplete without Kashmir and pledged ongoing political, diplomatic, and moral support for the Kashmiri people on all fronts.
Looking ahead, Field Marshal Munir stated that future conflicts will involve multi-domain operations, integrating long-range weapons, drones, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence. He announced the establishment of the Defence Forces Headquarters to align Pakistan’s armed forces with modern operational demands.
