Pakistan Observes Youm-e-Tashakur: A Tribute to Sacrifice and Strength
On May 16, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed a solemn yet celebratory ceremony at Islamabad’s Pakistan Monument to mark Youm-e-Tashakur, a day of national thanksgiving. The occasion commemorated Pakistan’s decisive military victory in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the defense of national sovereignty in Marka-e-Haq, following recent hostilities with India.
The premier paid rich tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the homeland, emphasizing the spiritual and historic significance of the day. “Today is a day that few witness in history,” he stated, “a moment of unity, pride, and national gratitude.”
PM Shehbaz recalled the circumstances surrounding the enemy’s rejection of Pakistan’s offer to investigate the Pahalgam attack, which instead led to an aggressive offensive targeting innocent civilians. In response, Pakistan’s military retaliated swiftly and decisively, shooting down six enemy aircraft, including Rafale and MiG jets, and launching precision strikes on enemy positions in Pathankot and Udhampur.
A Decisive Response: Bravery of Armed Forces and Strategic Leadership
During his address, the prime minister lauded the bravery and professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces, recounting a key conversation with Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. “Allow us to deliver such a slap to the enemy’s face that they will remember it for a lifetime,” General Munir had stated, with Pakistan’s air and missile response soon compelling India to request a ceasefire.
PM Shehbaz noted that the greatest honour was forcing the enemy to the negotiating table. “We have achieved something very few nations do—we forced a ceasefire from a position of strength,” he said. He credited Pakistan’s use of indigenously developed military technology and precise targeting for the success, while acknowledging the strategic support and recognition from global powers including the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye.
He expressed gratitude to international allies, highlighting their role in de-escalation, and extended particular appreciation to US President Donald Trump for his diplomatic efforts in facilitating peace.
🕊️ From Conflict to Cooperation: A Renewed Call for Regional Peace
Despite the military victory, PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s desire for peace, stability, and regional prosperity. He emphasized that both Pakistan and India must recognize their status as permanent neighbours, and choose dialogue over war. “We’ve fought three wars—none of them solved anything. They only brought poverty and devastation,” he said.
The prime minister invited India to join in a peaceful resolution of key disputes, particularly Jammu & Kashmir and water-sharing issues, suggesting that once resolved, both nations could unlock potential in trade, business, and counter-terrorism cooperation.
He also underscored the massive cost of Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, citing over 90,000 lives lost and $150 billion in economic damages. “This sacrifice isn’t just for Pakistan—it’s a contribution to global peace,” he remarked.
The ceremony concluded with a Quranic recitation, a spectacular aerial display by Pakistan Air Force jets, and loud patriotic chants from attendees including top military officials, cabinet members, and diplomats.
