Civil-military leaders honor martyrs on Defense Day

In a heartfelt tribute to the brave sacrifices made by Pakistan’s military forces, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and leaders of the services reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast dedication to its defense and sovereignty on Saturday.

They remarked that September 6th is a day of bravery, solidarity, and determination in their individual statements on the 60th Defense and Martyrs Day.

President Asif Zardari referred to September 6 as a “glorious chapter” in the history of the nation in his statement.

President Zardari gave heartfelt thanks to the courageous troops and tenacious civilians who have protected the country’s frontiers with unwavering faith and unrivaled bravery. He underlined that future generations are still guided by the spirit of sacrifice from the 1965 conflict.

Given the recent Operation “Bunyan-um-Marsoos” against India in May 2025, the president emphasized the importance of this year’s Defence Day. “Our sons once again proved their unmatched bravery during this year’s operation, just as our courageous forces demonstrated extraordinary valor and dedication in 1965,” he said.

He praised Pakistan’s military’s multi-domain capabilities—land, air, and sea—as well as its professional competence and battle preparedness, saying that these reinforce the country’s defense as “impregnable,” based on the enduring spirit of its citizens and the resolute determination of its armed forces.

President Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to continuously improving Pakistan’s defense capabilities in his capacity as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. He emphasized how critical it is to combat contemporary challenges including psychological operations, disinformation, propaganda, and hybrid warfare. “It is imperative that we not only increase our military power but also fortify our information and communication networks in the modern era,” he stated.

In the midst of changing circumstances, the president urged all pillars of the state—especially the youth—to stay vigilant, unified, and resilient. Additionally, he reiterated Pakistan’s moral position on the two major international crises of Palestine and Kashmir. Describing the Kashmir conflict as the root cause of instability in the region, President Zardari called for a just solution in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people.

He called for international action to establish an independent Palestinian state with the capital at Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) and denounced the ongoing atrocities against Palestinians as genocide. “This is the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East,” he said.

Concluding his address, President Zardari called upon the nation to renew their resolve on this Defence and Martyrs Day. “Let us remain steadfast, courageous, and united so that the sacrifices of our martyrs are honored, our defense remains unbreakable, and we pass on a strong, prosperous, and peaceful Pakistan to our future generations,” he urged.

He further emphasized the honor owed to the families of the martyrs and the sacred trust of the sacrifices made by veterans. “The spirit of September will forever echo in the bravery of our armed forces and the resilience of our nation. No challenge can deter us from the path of dignity and sovereignty. Long live Pakistan’s armed forces. Pakistan Zindabad,” he concluded.

PM Shehbaz Vows National Unity

In his message, the prime minister reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to safeguarding sovereignty, countering external threats, and building a united, prosperous future.

The prime minister said September 6 is etched in national history as a symbol of courage, unity, and resilience. Recalling the 1965 war, he noted that Pakistan’s valiant armed forces, with the full support of the people, had thwarted enemy aggression, proving that the country possesses the will and capacity to defend its independence and integrity.

Highlighting the recent “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, Marqa e Haq,” Shehbaz Sharif lauded the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force for their unmatched professionalism and combat skills under the strategic leadership of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. He said the nation takes pride in the sacrifices of martyrs and the courage of war veterans, whose example will continue to inspire generations.

The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and constructive international engagement but warned against ignoring the reality of “continuous Indian provocations and shifting regional dynamics.” He stressed that Pakistan would keep strengthening its defense capabilities while resolutely combating foreign-sponsored terrorism and proxy warfare.

“Our armed forces and law enforcement agencies have made remarkable progress in eliminating the menace of extremism and terrorism. The nation stands firmly by their side until this mission is completed,” he said.

Expressing solidarity with oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the prime minister reiterated unwavering support for Kashmiris in Indian IIOJK, stating that their struggle for self-determination cannot be suppressed by force. He also strongly condemned ongoing Israeli aggression in Palestine and urged the international community to ensure protection of civilians and uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that economic stability is vital for a strong defense. He called on the nation to rise above personal differences and work collectively for sustainable prosperity and self-reliance.

“On this Defence and Martyrs Day, let us renew our pledge to the timeless principles of faith, unity, and discipline as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam, and work together for a secure, united, and prosperous Pakistan.

Service Chiefs Pay Tribute to Martyrs

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff; General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC); Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan pay tribute and offer their deepest respect to the valiant martyrs and their families on the 60th Defence and Martyrs’ Day.

“September 6, 1965, epitomises the unflinching resolve and unshakeable spirit of the Pakistani nation. On this historic day, our brave soldiers, with the support of nation, stood like an insurmountable wall against blatant aggression, thwarting the nefarious designs of an enemy far superior in arms and numbers. The feats of heroic valour and sacrifice left an indelible message on the sands of time, that a united nation can never be defeated,” said a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The courage of our fearless heroes continues to inspire future generations and their legacy shall live on forever. Today, the nation honours and salutes its martyrs, its ghazis and their resilient families who have offered unparalleled sacrifices for the security of this great country.

Apart from standing resolute against external aggression and terrorism, the Armed Forces of Pakistan have always supported the people of Pakistan in calamities and natural disasters as well. The Armed Forces will extend all out support to the victims of ongoing floods across Pakistan and will celebrate the Defence and Martyrs Day with utmost humility.

“Today, we reaffirm our pledge to uphold the sacred responsibility entrusted to us by the nation. Pakistan Armed Forces remain ever vigilant and prepared to defend the country against all kinds of threats. Any attempt to disrupt our hard-earned peace will be met with a befitting and decisive response. May Allah Almighty continue to bless Pakistan with peace, stability and strength. Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad Pakistan Hamesha Paindabad,” it further said.