Pakistan is observing Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitude) today to celebrate the significant success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos and the historic victory of Marka-e-Haq, paying tribute to the country’s armed forces and its resilient people.
The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and special prayers across mosques, seeking blessings for national unity, stability, and prosperity. Prayers were also offered for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Kashmir (IIOJK).
Following Namaz-e-Shukr, Quran recitations and prayers were held for the success of Pakistan’s armed forces and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
In Islamabad, a 31-gun salute marked the occasion, while all provincial capitals, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan echoed with 21-gun salutes.
These ceremonies reflected the nation’s appreciation for its defenders. Patriotic chants such as “Takbeer Allahu Akbar,” “Pakistan Zindabad,” and “Long Live Pakistan Armed Forces” rang out across the country.
At major national landmarks, change of guard ceremonies were held, including at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi and Allama Iqbal in Lahore. Floral wreaths were laid at Yadgar-e-Shuhada in honour of the fallen heroes.
Labour union members in Lahore staged a demonstration at the Press Club, celebrating the triumph of Operation Bunyan Marsoos. Military and government representatives visited the families of martyrs to express their respect and gratitude.
The main celebration will be held tonight at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the chief guest.
Top military officials, including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Army Staff, are expected to attend.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had declared that Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq will be observed annually on May 10 to honour the bravery and success of the armed forces.
In a heartfelt gesture, the Prime Minister and the Army Chief visited the family of Shaheed Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf, offering prayers and acknowledging his dedication during Marka-e-Haq.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both issued messages to the nation on Youm-e-Tashakur, calling the success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos a shared victory between the armed forces and the Pakistani people.
President Zardari lauded the unity and strength of the nation, stating, “This victory is not only of our valiant military but of the entire nation that stood united like a solid wall. I thank Almighty Allah for granting us success in this critical hour.”
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace while protecting its sovereignty and national interests, strongly opposing any violation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
PM Shehbaz Sharif praised the swift response of the Pakistan Air Force during the recent tensions with India, saying, “Today, the nation is expressing gratitude to Allah Almighty for the glorious victory against India’s open aggression and provocation.”
He also commended the leadership of General Syed Asim Munir, the Air Chief Zaheer Babar, and the Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari congratulated the armed forces and the people, calling the operation a strategic success that “shattered India’s perceived military superiority.”
He emphasized national unity, stating, “Today is a reaffirmation that whenever our motherland is threatened, we stand united with unwavering resolve.”
In Peshawar, a special ceremony at Yadgar-e-Shuhada was held to honour the armed forces.
Attendees included the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, senior military officials, civil servants, religious and political leaders, and members of minority communities. Children from the Army Public School also joined the tribute.
Floral wreaths were laid, and prayers offered to remember the sacrifices of the martyrs. The Chief Minister and military leaders personally met with the families of the fallen to express solidarity and respect.