Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitute) is being observed across Pakistan today to mark the historic victory of Marka-e-Haq and to pay tribute to the armed forces and the resilient people of the country following the success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos.
The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and special prayers in mosques throughout the country. Special supplications were offered for Pakistan’s stability, prosperity, and unity. Prayers were also held for the freedom of India Illegally Occupied Kashmir (IIOJK).
Following the Namaz-e-Shukr, Quran recitations were held for the success of the armed forces and the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the nation.
A 31-gun salute was presented in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes echoed across all provincial capitals, including Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, as Pakistan marked Youm-e-Tashakur to celebrate the historic victory of Operation Bunyan Marsoos.
The ceremonial artillery fire symbolized the nation’s gratitude and recognition of the Pakistan Armed Forces’ success in Marka-e-Haq, a decisive operation in response to Indian aggression.
The skies across the country reverberated with patriotic chants including “Takbeer – Allahu Akbar,” “Pakistan Zindabad,” and “Long Live Pakistan Armed Forces.”
Gun salutes, change of guard ceremonies, and floral wreaths laid at monuments to the fallen were part of the day-long events honouring the courage and sacrifices of Pakistan’s defenders.
Change of guard ceremonies were held this morning at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi and Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Lahore. Special floral wreaths were laid at Yadgaar-e-Shuhada to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs.
In Lahore, members of the Clean City Labour Union held a celebratory demonstration at the Lahore Press Club to commemorate the achievement of Operation Bunyan Marsoos.
Special meetings are being held with the families of martyrs to pay tribute to their sacrifices. Local governments and military officials are personally visiting these families, recognizing their contribution to the nation’s defence.
The main ceremony of Youm-e-Tashakur will take place tonight at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be the chief guest, while the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Army Staff are also expected to attend.
In his earlier address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had announced that Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq would be observed annually on May 10 to commemorate the successful defence of the homeland and the bravery of the armed forces.
PM, Army Chief visit house of Shaheed Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf
Prime Minister, accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff, visited the residence of Shaheed Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf.
According to sources, the Prime Minister and the Army Chief met with the family members of the martyr and offered prayers for the elevation of his rank in the hereafter.
The Prime Minister praised the dedication and sense of duty demonstrated by Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf during Marka-e-Haq, sources added.
President, PM lead tributes to armed forces on Youm-e-Tashakur
President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz have also issued special messages to the nation on the occasion of Youm-e-Tashakur declaring the success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos as a joint victory of Pakistan’s armed forces and its proud, dignified people.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his official message, praised the courage and professionalism of the armed forces, stating “This victory is not only of our valiant military but of the entire nation that stood united like a solid wall. I thank Almighty Allah for granting us success in this critical hour.”
He emphasised that Pakistan seeks peace in the region but will never compromise on its sovereignty, national interests, or territorial integrity.
He also condemned any unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, vowing to protect Pakistan’s water rights using all elements of national power.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his special message on Youm-e-Tashakur, stated that the Pakistan Air Force’s falcons turned the enemy into a cautionary tale within a few hours during the recent confrontation.
“Today, the nation is expressing gratitude to Allah Almighty for the glorious victory against India’s open aggression and provocation,” the premier said.
He extended gratitude to General Syed Asim Munir for his wise and courageous leadership in achieving this great victory. He also praised Chief of Air Staff Zaheer Babar and his “falcons” for their exemplary performance and saluted Admiral Naveed Ashraf of the Pakistan Navy for safeguarding the country’s maritime frontiers.
Local leaders also share special messages
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari extended congratulations to the armed forces and the people of Pakistan. He termed the operation a strategic triumph that shattered India’s perceived military superiority.
“Today is a reaffirmation that whenever our motherland is threatened, we stand united with unwavering resolve,” said Bilawal, adding that India’s failed assault has globally exposed its aggressive posture.
Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori said that the armed forces have given a befitting response to the enemy, proving that Pakistan is in safe hands.
Speaking to the media after visiting the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam along with MQM members of the assembly on the occasion of Youm-e-Tashakur, Governor Tessori said the enemy launched an attack under the cover of darkness, but by the will of Allah, the outcome was determined in Pakistan’s favor.
Tessori reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace. “We have never abandoned patience or the path of peace. We are peaceful people and do not want war,” he said. “In my city, there are businesses named Bombay Bakery and Delhi Rabri, yet no shop has been attacked.”
He expressed solidarity with the families of all martyrs and said, “So far, we have only given a defensive response. Modi has been exposed, and his head is bowed in shame. We are not against India or its forces, but we are against Modi, who desecrated our mosques.”
Tessori paid tribute to General Asim Munir and thanked friendly countries for standing with Pakistan.
Flag hoisting ceremony held in Mirpur, AJK
A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Municipal Corporation office in Mirpur, AJK, on the occasion of Youm-e-Tashakur.
The ceremony was attended by political and social figures, administrative officials, government employees, and a large number of citizens.
On this occasion, the national anthems of AJK and Pakistan were played, and salutes were presented to the national flags.
Addressing the gathering, speakers said that the success of the Pakistan Armed Forces has united the entire nation.
Solidarity rally held in Athmuqam, Neelum Valley
A solidarity rally was held in Athmuqam, the district headquarters of Neelum Valley.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and teachers of various schools, as well as a large number of local residents.
Participants raised passionate slogans including “Long Live Pakistan Army” and “Long Live Pakistan.”
Rally participants said the people of Neelum Valley are extremely pleased with Pakistan’s strong and fitting response to India.
Special ceremony held at Yadgar-e-Shuhada in Peshawar
A special ceremony was held at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada in Peshawar to commemorate the remarkable success of the Pakistan Armed Forces in Marka-e-Haq — Operation Bunyan Marsoos.
The event was attended by the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, along with a large number of officials from the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, civil authorities, government representatives, religious leaders, political figures, and members of the Hindu, Christian, and Sikh minority communities. Businessmen and children from the Army Public School (APS) also participated.
Participants paid tribute to the martyrs by laying floral wreaths at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada and offered prayers in their honor.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by the IG FC (North) and military officers, also met with the families of the martyrs to express condolences and solidarity.
