Nationwide Commemoration for Military Bravery and National Unity

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared Sunday a “Day of Gratitude” across Pakistan to honor the country’s military and citizens for their unity and resolve following Pakistan’s military response to recent Indian actions. The day serves to thank the nation for its resilience and the armed forces for their brave and strategic countermeasures amid heightened tensions with India.

Tensions Sparked by Kashmir Attack and Indian Retaliation

The latest escalation began after a deadly gun attack in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Kashmir, in April that killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan for the incident, a claim that Islamabad strongly denied. In retaliation, India conducted air and drone strikes on what it claimed were terrorist hideouts within Pakistan’s borders and suspended the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty.

Pakistan Launches ‘Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos’

In response, the Pakistan military conducted targeted strikes on Indian military installations, including a missile storage facility, under the banner of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos. According to military officials, the operation was carried out with precision to send a strong message without targeting civilian areas.

Ceasefire Brokered with U.S. Mediation

Amid fears of a full-scale conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that a U.S.-mediated ceasefire had been reached. Military officials from both sides agreed to halt operations from 5:00 PM Indian Standard Time on Saturday.

Nationwide Observance and Religious Participation

State media, including Radio Pakistan, reported that the “Day of Gratitude” was being observed with religious gatherings, public statements of support, and nationwide prayers for those who lost their lives during the conflict. Prime Minister Sharif invited religious leaders and the general public to join in prayers for peace and stability.

Calls for Lasting Peace and Diplomacy

In a televised address on Saturday night, Prime Minister Sharif expressed hope that the ceasefire would open the door to serious diplomatic dialogue between the two countries. He emphasized the need to resolve core issues, particularly the Kashmir dispute and water-sharing conflicts, through peaceful negotiations.

Ceasefire Claims Disputed Amid Fragile Calm

While Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that military leaders had agreed to the ceasefire, India soon accused Pakistan of violating it by attacking Srinagar in Kashmir. Pakistan’s Information Minister Ata Tarar firmly rejected the allegation, stating that Pakistan was celebrating peace and had no interest in further confrontation.

The Pakistani Foreign Office reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire, highlighting that the country was exercising maximum restraint and responding only where necessary to protect its sovereignty.

A Moment of Unity Amid Regional Tensions

The observance of the “Day of Gratitude” reflects a moment of national solidarity and a desire for peaceful resolution. It underscores Pakistan’s stance of firm defense paired with diplomatic engagement, marking a crucial turning point in South Asian regional stability.