Islamabad leads with 31-gun salute; provincial capitals follow with 21-gun salutes in tribute
Pakistan is observing Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitude) nationwide today to commemorate the historic triumph in Operation Bunyan Marsoos, also referred to as Marka-e-Haq. The day honors the sacrifices of the armed forces and the resilient spirit of the Pakistani people.
The day commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and special prayers held in mosques across the country. Worshippers prayed for national unity, peace, prosperity, and the liberation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
After offering Namaz-e-Shukr, citizens engaged in Quran recitations, praying for the continued success of the military and the elevation of martyrs who laid down their lives for the country.
In a symbolic gesture of national gratitude, a 31-gun salute echoed in Islamabad, while 21-gun salutes were carried out in all provincial capitals as well as in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The gun salutes signified the nation’s acknowledgment of the Pakistan Armed Forces’ decisive victory in Marka-e-Haq—an operation launched in response to Indian hostility.
Chants of patriotism, including “Takbeer – Allahu Akbar,” “Pakistan Zindabad,” and “Long Live Pakistan Armed Forces” resonated across the country.
Ceremonies and Tributes Across the Country
Floral wreaths were laid at memorials, and change-of-guard ceremonies were conducted at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi and Allama Iqbal in Lahore. Tributes were paid at Yadgaar-e-Shuhada to honor the nation’s martyrs.
In Lahore, the Clean City Labour Union held a celebratory demonstration at the Press Club, marking the military success.
Military officials and local government representatives also visited the families of fallen soldiers to recognize their sacrifices.
Main Event in Islamabad
The main Youm-e-Tashakur ceremony is scheduled for tonight at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be the chief guest, with the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Army Staff expected to attend.
PM Shehbaz earlier announced that Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq would be observed annually on May 10 to commemorate this historic military achievement.
Leadership Pays Tribute to the Armed Forces
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir visited the residence of Shaheed Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf, offering prayers and condolences to his family. The PM praised the officer’s dedication during the operation.
President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz issued messages celebrating the operation’s success as a joint victory for both the military and the people.
President Zardari lauded the professionalism and courage of the armed forces and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace, while warning against any threats to national sovereignty—including violations of the Indus Waters Treaty.
PM Shehbaz highlighted the Pakistan Air Force’s swift and decisive action, crediting General Asim Munir’s leadership and praising the Navy’s defense of maritime borders.
Voices from Political and Regional Leaders
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari congratulated the armed forces and termed the operation a strategic success that dismantled India’s military image. He reaffirmed national unity in the face of any threat.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, while speaking at Quaid-e-Azam’s mausoleum, commended the armed forces’ timely and effective response. He stressed Pakistan’s peaceful intentions while condemning Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s actions.
Tessori underscored that Pakistanis coexist peacefully and harbor no animosity towards Indians, only opposing the extremism Modi represents.
Celebrations Across Regions
In Mirpur, AJK, a flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Municipal Corporation office, attended by officials, citizens, and community leaders. National anthems were played and salutes presented to national flags.
A solidarity rally in Athmuqam, Neelum Valley, drew participation from students, teachers, and residents who raised passionate slogans in support of the armed forces.
In Peshawar, a special ceremony at Yadgar-e-Shuhada brought together the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, military officials, civil servants, political leaders, religious figures, and minority representatives. Army Public School students and local business leaders also took part.
Attendees laid floral wreaths and offered prayers to honor the fallen. The Chief Minister, along with military leaders, met the families of martyrs to convey condolences and solidarity.
