- The ISPR affirms that September 6, 1965 reflected our determination of our company against the stronger enemy.
- President Asif Ali Zardari called on September 6 a glorious chapter of the sacrifice.
- The PM says that September 6 shows unity, courage against enemy attack.
Islamabad: 60th defense and martyrs’ day, Pakistan civilian and military leaders paid tribute rich to the country’s martyrs, Ghazis and resilient citizens whose courage and sacrifices continue to protect the freedom and sovereignty of the nation.
The day, which coincided with the blessed opportunity of Eid Milad-Un-Nabi (PSL), began with a salvation of 31 cannons in the Federal capital.
The chief of staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman of the Committee of Chiefs of Staff (CJCSC), General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Naval Friendship Head, Naved Ashraf and Air Staff, Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, led the tribute to the heroes of the country.
In his message, Public Inter-Services Relations (ISPR) declared on September 6 embodies the flawless resolution and the unshakable spirit of the Pakistani nation.
“On this historic day, our brave soldiers, with the support of the nation, stood like an insurmountable wall against the blatant aggression, thwarting the harmful creations of a much higher enemy in arms and figures. The exploits of heroic valor and sacrifice have left an unqualled message on the sands of time: that a heroic nation can never be defeated, “he said.
The ISPR added that the courage of the intrepid heroes continues to inspire future generations and that their inheritance will live forever. The armed forces have also expressed their determination to extend the total support for victims of current floods across Pakistan and have reaffirmed their commitment to defend the country against any threat, promising a “convincing and decisive response” to any attempt to disrupt the harshly won peace.
‘A glorious chapter’
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message issued by the presidency, called on September 6 a “glorious chapter” in the history of Pakistan. He paid tribute rich to the brave soldiers and resilient citizens who, with unshakeable faith and unrivaled courage, defended the borders of the country.
The president underlined the importance of this year’s defense day in the light of the recent operation “Bunyan-Um-Marsoos” carried out in May 2025. “Like our courageous forces demonstrated extraordinary valor and dedication in 1965, our sons once again proven their unequaled bravery during this year’s operation,” he said.
He praised professional excellence, preparation for combat and multi-domain capacities of the Pakistani army, calling for the defense of the “breathtaking” nation and relies on the eternal spirit of its people. As a supreme commander of the armed forces, he reiterated his commitment to modernize Pakistan’s defense capacities and emphasized the fight against modern threats such as hybrid war, disinformation and psychological operations.
President Zardari has urged all state pillars, especially young people, to remain alert, united and resilient in the face of evolving challenges. He reaffirmed the position of the principles of Pakistan on cashmere and Palestine, qualifying the cashmere the deep cause of regional instability and condemning Israeli atrocities as genocide. He demanded a just solution for cashmere and an independent Palestinian state with al-Quds al-Sharif as capital.
“Constantly unwavering, courageous and united, so that the sacrifices of our martyrs are honored, that our defense remains unbreakable and that we transmit a strong, prosperous and peaceful Pakistan to our future generations,” he concluded, paying tribute to the families of martyrs and veterans.
‘A symbol of courage’
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid a brilliant tribute to martyrs and Ghazis, calling on September 6 “a symbol of courage, unity and resilience”. He recalled how the armed forces of Pakistan, with the full support of the people, had thwarted the enemy aggression in 1965 and proven the country’s ability to defend its independence and its integrity.
Stressing the recent “operation Bunyan-Um-Marsoos, Marqa-E-Haq”, the Prime Minister praised the army, the Navy and the Air Force for their unequaled professionalism and their combat skills under the strategic direction of the Marshal of Coas Field Munir. He said that the courage of martyrs and war veterans would continue to inspire generations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and constructive commitment, but warned of “continuous Indian provocations and changing regional dynamics”. He underlined the strengthening of defense capacities and thwarted terrorism and the war by proxy sponsored by foreigners.
Expressing solidarity with the Indian people illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the Prime Minister reiterated unwavering support for their struggle for self -determination and has strongly condemned the Israeli aggression in progress in Palestine, urging uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The first first stressed that economic stability is essential for a strong defense and urged the nation to overcome personal differences for sustainable prosperity and autonomy.
“With regard to this defense day and martyrs, let’s renew our commitment to the timeless principles of faith, unity and discipline, as envisaged by Quaid-Ezam, and work together for a secure, united and prosperous Pakistan.
