On the 60th Defence and Martyrs’ Day, Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership united to pay tribute to the nation’s martyrs, veterans, and resilient citizens. Their courage and sacrifices continue to serve as the bedrock of the country’s freedom and sovereignty.
The day, which also coincided with Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH), began with a 31-gun salute in the capital. The homage was led by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.
In its message, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that September 6 embodies the unwavering resolve and unshakeable spirit of the Pakistani nation. “On this historic day, our brave soldiers, with the support of the nation, stood as an insurmountable wall against blatant aggression, thwarting the nefarious designs of an enemy far superior in arms and numbers,” the message read. “The feats of heroic valor and sacrifice left an indelible message on the sands of time: that a united nation can never be defeated.”
ISPR added that the courage of these fearless heroes continues to inspire future generations, and their legacy will live on forever. The armed forces also renewed their commitment to provide all-out support to victims of the ongoing floods and pledged to defend the country against any threat, vowing a “befitting and decisive response” to any attempt to disrupt the hard-earned peace.
A solemn guard-changing ceremony was also held at the Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi. A contingent from the Pakistan Air Force Academy Asghar Khan took over guard duties at the mausoleum, with Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan attending as the chief guest.
During his address at the ceremony, Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan remarked: “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos reminds us of September 6, but next time the score won’t stop at 6-0, it will be 60-0.”
A Glorious Chapter
In a message from the Presidency, President Asif Ali Zardari called September 6 a “glorious chapter” in Pakistan’s history. He paid rich tribute to the brave soldiers and resilient citizens who, with unwavering faith and courage, have defended the nation’s borders.
The president highlighted the significance of this year’s Defence Day in light of the recent “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos” conducted in May 2025. “Just as our courageous forces demonstrated extraordinary valour and dedication in 1965, our sons once again proved their unmatched bravery during this year’s operation,” he said.
He praised the professional excellence, combat readiness, and multi-domain capabilities of the Pakistani military, stating that the nation’s defense is “impregnable” and built on the eternal spirit of its people. As Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, he reiterated his commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s defense capabilities and emphasized the importance of countering modern threats such as hybrid warfare, disinformation, and psychological operations.
President Zardari urged all pillars of the state, especially the youth, to remain alert, united, and resilient. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stance on Kashmir and Palestine, calling Kashmir the root cause of regional instability and condemning Israeli atrocities as genocide. He demanded a just solution for Kashmir and an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
“Let us remain steadfast, courageous, and united so that the sacrifices of our martyrs are honored, our defense remains unbreakable, and we pass on a strong, prosperous, and peaceful Pakistan to our future generations,” he concluded, also paying tribute to the families of martyrs and veterans.
A Symbol of Courage
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also offered a glowing tribute to the martyrs and veterans, calling September 6 “a symbol of courage, unity, and resilience.” He recalled how Pakistan’s armed forces, with the full support of the people, thwarted enemy aggression in 1965 and proved the nation’s ability to defend its independence and integrity.
Highlighting the recent “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, Marqa-e-Haq,” the prime minister praised the Army, Navy, and Air Force for their unmatched professionalism and combat skills under the strategic leadership of COAS Field Marshal Munir. He added that the courage of martyrs and war veterans will continue to inspire generations.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and constructive engagement but warned against ignoring “continuous Indian provocations and shifting regional dynamics.” He stressed the need to strengthen defense capabilities and resolutely counter foreign-sponsored terrorism and proxy warfare.
Expressing solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the prime minister reiterated unwavering support for their struggle for self-determination and strongly condemned ongoing Israeli aggression in Palestine, urging uninterrupted humanitarian aid for Gaza.
The premier underscored that economic stability is essential for strong defense and urged the nation to rise above personal differences for sustainable prosperity and self-reliance. “On this Defence and Martyrs Day, let us renew our pledge to the timeless principles of faith, unity, and discipline as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam, and work together for a secure, united, and prosperous Pakistan. Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad, Pakistan Paindabad,” he concluded.
