Pakistan’s response forced India to seek ceasefire: PM Shehbaz
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Sunday that Pakistan’s forceful response to aggression in May last year compelled India to pursue a ceasefire, while commending the armed forces for their rapid and effective operations during the conflict. He made the remarks during a ceremony held at the Pakistan Monument to mark the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, Field Marshal Asim Munir, military chiefs, and senior political leaders. Marka-e-Haq refers to the 19-day military confrontation between Pakistan and India that lasted from April 22 to May 10, 2025. Before delivering his speech, the PM observed a minute of silence to honour those who lost their lives defending the country. During his address, Shehbaz Sharif rejected India’s allegations linked to the Pahalgam incident, describing them as baseless. He said Pakistan had warned against any hostile move and had even proposed an impartial investigation into the matter. He stated that tensions escalated after India resorted to aggression, prompting Pakistan’s armed forces to respond decisively. He praised the Pakistan Air Force for asserting aerial dominance during the conflict, saying enemy aircraft were destroyed and the response ultimately pushed India toward seeking a ceasefire. Shehbaz Sharif stated that, even after a year, India had failed to present evidence supporting its accusations against Pakistan. Announcing May 10 as “Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq,” he said the occasion would now be observed annually across the country. The premier also commended Field Marshal Asim Munir for his leadership during the conflict, while also praising the chiefs of the air force and navy for their roles in defending the country. He said the nation stood united behind the armed forces during the confrontation and expressed appreciation to friendly nations for their diplomatic backing. Among those acknowledged were Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Chine