Masses rally behind armed forces in display of national unity; Indian side remains quiet amid heightened tensions.
LAHORE: Thousands of patriotic citizens gathered at the Wagah Border on Sunday to mark what they hailed as a resounding triumph for Pakistan, following the military’s retaliatory Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos in response to recent Indian hostilities.
The crowd, made up of men, women, children, and the elderly, chanted slogans such as “Allahu Akbar,” “Pakistan Zindabad,” and “Long live Pakistan Army,” while waving national flags and wearing green and white attire. Despite the Pakistani-side stadium being under construction and typically closed to the public, turnout exceeded expectations.
At the end of the ceremonial parade, members of the Pakistan Rangers Punjab were greeted with flower petals, garlands, and heartfelt chants. Emotional scenes unfolded as elderly women embraced and kissed the soldiers’ foreheads in gratitude.
Maryam, a university student from Lahore, expressed her pride: “We’re here to celebrate our victory. I hope this puts an end to Modi’s warmongering.” Hamza, another young participant, added, “Our army has sent a clear message to India and the world — we fear no one but Allah.”
Another woman in the crowd stated, “India will think twice before threatening us again. This response will be remembered.”
Parade Commander Nasir, addressing the media, emphasized the military’s state of alert since tensions began. “We’ve always said we only fear Allah,” he noted, referencing Pakistan’s return of Indian pilot Abhinandan in 2019 as a prior example of restraint paired with resolve. “Today, we’ve again shown our commitment.”
Commander Nasir also shared the deep emotional support from the local population. “During tense nights, locals brought us food. Today, they offer their hearts. This love boosts our morale.”
Ranger soldier Ali recounted a powerful message from his mother: “She told me not to fear death for the motherland — to take a bullet on the chest, not the back, or she wouldn’t bless me. That’s our spirit.”
In stark contrast, the Indian side of the Wagah Border remained silent. No public crowd, no customary parade by the Border Security Force — only a quiet lowering of the flag, reflecting a subdued atmosphere and possible internal disquiet.
