ISLAMABAD: Today marks the 59th Defence and Martyrs Day, commemorating the anniversary of the 1965 war when India launched a surprise attack on Pakistan. Despite facing daunting challenges, Pakistan’s forces successfully repelled the invasion, thwarting India’s plans to penetrate the country.
In observance of this significant event, the nation is holding a day of remembrance. A 31-gun salute was fired in Islamabad, while provincial capitals received 21-gun salutes at dawn. Special prayers were offered in mosques after Fajr for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity, and for the liberation of Kashmir, which remains under Indian occupation.
The day also honors the martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending the nation. The historic 1965 conflict is remembered for Pakistan’s military’s exceptional courage and patriotism in the face of external aggression.
In his recent address, the President highlighted the enduring Kashmir issue as “the unfinished agenda of partition” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advocating for the Palestinian cause on the global stage.
Military Tribute
The military leadership, including the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and other service chiefs, paid homage to the martyrs and veterans of the 1965 war. Their messages praised the resolute spirit of Pakistan’s forces and citizens, which has withstood the test of time.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reiterated that the sacrifices made by these martyrs will never be forgotten, and their legacy continues to fuel the nation’s quest for peace, prosperity, and strength.
President Zardari Vows to Defend Country’s Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity
President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against any threats. In his message for Defence and Martyrs’ Day, President Zardari highlighted the vigilance and readiness of Pakistan’s armed forces to face any challenge.
He paid profound tribute to the Ghazis and Shuhada who made significant sacrifices and courageously defended the country against external aggression.
The President emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peace and stability in the region and its commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries. However, he noted that lasting peace can only be achieved when the suffering of the people of Kashmir is addressed.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Honors 1965 War Heroes
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid heartfelt tributes to the brave sons of the soil and the heroic armed forces of Pakistan who valiantly defended the nation during the 1965 conflict with India. He praised their courage in repelling the attack across the international border on this day in 1965. The Prime Minister stressed Pakistan’s preference for dialogue over conflict and cooperation over confrontation. He highlighted the nation’s goal of fostering an environment where all countries can thrive and tackle issues like health, poverty, and education.
Prime Minister Sharif reiterated that Kashmir remains the “unfinished agenda of partition” and needs to be resolved according to UNSC resolutions. Defence Day serves as a tribute to the valor and resilience of Pakistan’s armed forces during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. It symbolizes the courage, unity, and endurance of the Pakistani nation and its military in the face of aggression.
The day is a reminder of the collective effort to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and it honors the sacrifices of the Armed Forces, reflecting their unwavering commitment to national freedom and security.
Kamran Tesori
Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tesori hosted a special ceremony in Karachi to honor the families of martyrs with a red-carpet tribute. He underscored the unity of the Pakistani people, asserting that the nation stands united under the green flag in support of its forces.
Mohsin Naqvi
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to the martyrs, calling September 6 an indelible day in Pakistan’s history. He highlighted the unparalleled bravery with which Pakistan’s armed forces repelled the enemy, reaffirming that the sacrifices of the martyrs remain a profound source of national pride.
