ISLAMABAD: People from across the country came on streets as they observed Youm-i-Tashakur on Sunday for giving a befitting response to Indian aggression against Pakistan and on the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

The day was observed on the call of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to thank Allah Almighty and pay tribute to valour and gallantry shown by armed forces of the country, especially the Pakistan Air Force, in foiling the aggression and evil designs of the enemy against the country and giving India a befitting response.

Rallies were taken out by political parties and members of civil society from Karachi to Peshawar in which a large number of people participated.

According to a statement issued by the Media Wing of the Prime Minister’s Office, the PM said the Operation Bunyanum Marsoos gave an effective and befitting response to the enemy’s aggression, adding that the country proved its superiority on every front against the aggressor.

He said that despite India’s aggression, Pakistan maintained its defence with resilience and demonstrated full readiness to deal with any situation.

Youm-i-Tashakur observed on PM’s appeal as tribute paid to armed forces

PM Sharif urged the nation and Ulema (religious scholars) to offer collective prayers and Nawafils across the country to express gratitude to Allah Almighty.

He called for holding special prayers to remember martyrs and Ghazis whose sacrifices for the nation could never be forgotten. The whole nation stands by their side, he said.

Like other parts of the country, rallies were staged in Islamabad also by different groups and organisations.

Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police on Sunday organised a Youm-i-Tashakur Flag March under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi to express solidarity with the armed forces of the country.

The flag march commenced from the Sports Complex and passed through various areas of the city before culminating at the same location. All units of Islamabad Police actively participated in the event.

Speaking to participants of the rally, IG Rizvi said that Islamabad Police observed Youm-i-Tashakur to express their unity and love with the armed forces of the country, who have earned the global recognition and made the nation proud at the international stage because of their gallantry and courage.

He said that Islamabad police stand shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces of the country and they will never hesitate to make any sacrifice for the protection of the motherland.

In a display of national solidarity, parliamentary secretary for information and broadcasting Barrister Danyal Chaudhry led the Pakistan Zindabad Rally on Sunday, underscoring the nation’s unwavering support for the armed forces. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi was among the prominent figures who were part of the rally.

Speaking at the rally, Barrister Danyal said the world has recognised Pakistan as a sovereign, resilient, unconquerable nation and steadfast in defending its sovereignty. “Our military leadership, citizens, media, and state institutions have scripted history by showing unprecedented unity and resolve. This victory — on strategic, diplomatic, and moral fronts — is a testament to our collective will,” he added.

Should any hostile force dare test our resolve, it will confront the nation and its armed forces united in purpose and ready to defend the country’s sovereignty with unwavering strength, he said.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) staged a rally in Peshawar to express its solidarity with the armed forces of the country against Indian aggression and its historic defeat.

The rally started from Hashtnagari and ended at Bala Hisar Fort. The rally was led by former provincial minister Syed Zahir Ali Shah while Zulfiqar Afghani and other leaders accompanied him.

On this occasion, party workers raised slogans in favour of party leaders and the armed forces.

Rallies were also staged by different political and religious parties and civil society organisations in other parts of the country in which a large number of people participated.

Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2025