ISLAMABAD / LAHORE / KARACHI: A wave of patriotic fervor swept across the country on Saturday as Pakistan observed Youm-e-Tashakur (Thanksgiving Day) to mark its successful response to Indian aggression and the achievements of Operation Bunyan Marsoos. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared the day to offer gratitude to Allah, honour the bravery of the armed forces, and celebrate national unity in the face of a grave threat.
In a statement, the Prime Minister said that Operation Bunyan Marsoos had delivered an effective and comprehensive response to Indian hostilities, asserting Pakistan’s superiority across all fronts. “The unity of the nation and the professionalism of our armed forces have once again proven that Pakistan stands firm in the defense of its sovereignty,” he said.
The ceasefire, brokered following U.S. intervention, came after days of intense cross-border missile and drone attacks, which prompted a strong public reaction across the country. In Lahore, jubilant citizens took to the streets in celebration, chanting slogans in support of the Pakistan Army and waving national flags. The celebrations were particularly significant after the city endured its first missile strike, which hit Sundar Industrial Estate but fortunately caused no casualties.
Initially frustrated by Pakistan’s delayed military response to India’s Operation Sindoor, public sentiment quickly shifted when the armed forces launched Bunyan Marsoos, targeting Indian military infrastructure and avenging the loss of innocent lives, including children. Social media exploded with support for the military, memes mocking Indian propaganda, and praise for the leadership shown during the crisis.
A major rally held by the PML-N on Lahore’s Mall Road featured fiery speeches, the burning of Indian and Israeli flags, and effigies of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Participants emphasized the need to now shift focus to diplomatic fronts, particularly the restoration of the Indus Waters Treaty and reclaiming the legal status of India-held Kashmir.
Similar scenes of national unity and celebration unfolded in Karachi. Crowds gathered from the Karachi Press Club to Mazar-e-Quaid, waving flags, singing national songs, and honouring the armed forces. A thanksgiving rally organized by the Meri Pehchan Pakistan movement included people from all walks of life, including senior citizens, women, and the disabled, all holding portraits of Army Chief General Asim Munir.
Renowned singer Amjad Rana energized the crowd with patriotic performances, while former Sindh Governor Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan denounced India’s attempts to provoke war and praised the military’s firm response. “Modi’s arrogance has been shattered. Our response forced India back to the negotiation table,” he declared. He also called for an international commission to investigate the Pahalgam attack and the immediate restoration of Pakistan’s water rights.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah welcomed the ceasefire, calling it “a triumph for all who desire regional stability” and urged India to engage in meaningful peace talks on all outstanding issues, including Kashmir.
Meanwhile, as flight operations resumed and academic institutions prepared to reopen, law enforcement agencies remained on high alert. The Punjab home department allocated Rs2 billion for emergency security measures, the training of volunteers, and stockpiling essential supplies. Citizens were advised to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from sharing sensitive information about military movements on social media.
Despite the ongoing vigilance, the mood across the country was one of triumph and unity. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, joined by political leaders including Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz, congratulated the nation and praised the military’s professionalism. “This is not just a military victory,” the premier said in his national address, “but a victory of our values, unity, and national resolve.”
As the sun set on a tense but victorious week, Pakistan stood united in gratitude and pride — a nation resilient in the face of adversity, and steadfast in its pursuit of peace with dignity.
