ISLAMABAD –
Pakistan is celebrating Eidul Azha with deep religious fervour and nationwide calls for unity, compassion, and selflessness. Across the country, millions of Muslims offered Eid prayers and performed the ritual sacrifice, honouring the unwavering devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS).
Leadership Calls for Unity and Compassion
On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir extended heartfelt Eid greetings to the nation and the global Muslim community.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Eidul Azha embodies the values of patience, altruism, and collective sacrifice. He urged citizens to embrace unity to confront internal economic and social challenges, much like Pakistan’s resilience in the face of external threats. “This is a time to prioritize national interest over personal gain,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of sacrifice, the premier said the true spirit of Eid lies in dedicating one’s personal desires for higher national and humanitarian objectives. He expressed unwavering support for the people of Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to their right to self-determination.
President Zardari, in his message, underscored Eid as a symbol of obedience, devotion, and brotherhood. He encouraged Pakistanis to integrate the values of care, empathy, and generosity into daily life, particularly by supporting the underprivileged. “Let us work hand in hand to eliminate hatred and build a more prosperous Pakistan,” he said.
Armed Forces Reaffirm Commitment
Pakistan’s military leadership also extended Eidul Azha greetings, including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. In a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), they praised the nation’s resilience and reaffirmed the armed forces’ unwavering resolve to defend the country’s sovereignty.
“Eidul Azha is a sacred occasion that calls for reflection, unity, and sacrifice. The Pakistan Armed Forces stand resolutely with the people of Pakistan—united in purpose and steadfast in their sacred duty,” read the ISPR statement.
They also paid tribute to the families of martyrs—Shuhada-e-Pakistan—honouring their ultimate sacrifice in the service of national peace and security.
Nationwide Celebrations and Security Measures
Eid prayers were held in mosques, Eidgahs, Imambargahs, and open grounds across the country. In Islamabad, large congregations, including one at the Shah Faisal Mosque, offered special prayers for national prosperity and the well-being of the armed forces.
In Lahore, Darul Uloom Jamia Naeemi hosted major congregations led by Council of Islamic Ideology Chairman Raghib Naeemi, with large-scale sacrifices scheduled over three days. Similar scenes unfolded in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Hyderabad, and other major cities.
Strict security arrangements were enforced nationwide, with police, Rangers, and Quick Response Force (QRF) teams deployed to ensure safety during Eid congregations and sacrificial activities. In Lahore alone, over 6,000 officers were tasked with safeguarding more than 5,000 prayer sites.
Clerics across the country delivered sermons focusing on the spiritual and moral significance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice, while also praying for the unity of the Muslim Ummah and relief for the people of Palestine and Kashmir.
Many citizens visited graveyards to offer fateha for departed loved ones before performing the Sunnah of sacrifice and distributing meat among the poor, reflecting the core values of empathy and community support.
Focus on Cleanliness and Public Services
Municipal authorities launched special sanitation drives to manage animal waste, with dedicated teams working to promptly collect offal and maintain cleanliness in both urban and rural areas. These efforts aim to prevent public health issues and ensure hygienic conditions throughout the three-day celebration.
As Pakistan observes Eidul Azha, the overarching message from its leadership and people remains clear—sacrifice, solidarity, and a shared commitment to national and humanitarian values.
