In a powerful and emotionally charged address at a special Thanksgiving Day ceremony held at the Pakistan Monument, Shakarparian, Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared that Pakistan had successfully shot down six enemy aircraft, including Rafale jets, MiGs, and drones, during a recent escalation with a hostile neighbor. He hailed it as a moment of historic military triumph, calling on the nation to now channel the same spirit into economic revival.
The event was attended by top military leadership including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, services chiefs, federal ministers, foreign diplomats, and other dignitaries. The ceremony featured a flypast by the Pakistan Air Force Falcons and special prayers for the martyrs, in honor of those who laid down their lives defending the nation.
A Bold Response to Aggression
During his address, PM Shehbaz Sharif revealed dramatic details of how Pakistan responded to an unprovoked attack. He said that on the night of May 9 and 10, the enemy crossed all limits, launching missiles and killing innocent civilians, including a 6-year-old child. In an emergency meeting with military commanders, the decision was made to respond decisively.
At 2:30 am, the Army Chief informed me that missiles had been fired. He asked for permission to respond. I told him: give the enemy such a slap that they’ll remember it for life, the Prime Minister recalled.
A few hours later, the same enemy — once confident in its dominance — requested a ceasefire. The world is now talking about how Pakistan achieved this swift victory,he added, thanking Allah Almighty for granting success and protecting the nation.
Saluting the Martyrs and Unity of the Nation
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the martyrs of the armed forces, whose bravery turned the tide of conflict in Pakistan’s favor. “We salute the martyrs who gave their lives for our beloved homeland,” he said. “This kind of day is rarely witnessed — it is granted after centuries. The prayers of 240 million Pakistanis were answered.”
He emphasized that the unity and resilience shown during this crisis should become the foundation for a new beginning. “Now we must bring the spirit of May 10 into our economic field. This is the time to build the Pakistan of Quaid-e-Azam’s vision,” he said.
Acknowledging Global Support
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked friendly nations for standing with Pakistan during tense times, making special mention of U.S. President Donald Trump, who, according to the PM, played a critical role in facilitating a ceasefire and de-escalation.
I particularly thank President Trump for his leadership during this time. His timely intervention helped avoid further bloodshed.
India’s Allegations Rejected Internationally
In a related development, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who recently visited Pakistan, stated that India has not provided any evidence for the allegations it has made against Pakistan. He emphasized the need for dialogue and said that Pakistan, too, has been a victim of terrorism.
A Call for Peace and Prosperity
Shehbaz Sharif reflected on the cost of past conflicts, saying that Pakistan has fought three wars, achieving little, and that it’s now time to pursue peace and negotiations.
We have lost over 90,000 lives and $150 billion in our fight against terrorism. If we truly want lasting peace, the Kashmir issue must be resolved, he said, stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries.
He praised Army Chief General Asim Munir for his inspiring leadership, saying that the armed forces’ coordinated response was a turning point in restoring national pride and deterrence.
The Prime Minister concluded with a rallying cry for Pakistanis to harness the unity witnessed in these challenging moments and work tirelessly to rebuild the economy, establish justice, and fulfill the dreams of the nation’s founders.
The souls of our martyrs are calling us. Come, Pakistanis, build the Pakistan for which millions gave their lives. Let’s make unity our strength, and move forward with purpose.
With the military having delivered a clear message to the enemy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is now urging every citizen to become a soldier in Pakistan’s next great battle — the battle for economic revival, peace, and prosperity.
