RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir declared on Monday that no external threat can weaken the resolve of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, as the country prepares to commemorate its military victory against India with the newly designated Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq.
The announcement follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s declaration that May 10 will be observed annually to honor Pakistan’s success in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, a retaliatory campaign launched in response to Indian aggression during the conflict that spanned from April 22 to May 10.
During a visit to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalpindi, General Munir met with soldiers and civilians injured during the fighting. Speaking to media afterward, he reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to national defense. “No hostile design can shake our determination. The courage and sacrifice of our soldiers and civilians are the foundation of our nation’s strength,” he said.
He praised the unity shown by the public and military during the conflict, calling it a historic moment of national resilience. The ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations) noted that Operation Bunyanum Marsoos successfully fulfilled the promise of justice and deterrence made to the people of Pakistan, concluding what it called a decisive chapter in the country’s defense narrative.
Prime Minister Sharif echoed those sentiments in a televised address, announcing two national commemorative days. May 10 will be marked as Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq, celebrating the military operation, while May 16 has been declared the National Day of Gratitude, dedicated to collective prayers and reflection.
To honor the sacrifices made, the government announced financial relief and support packages for affected families. Families of martyred civilians will receive Rs10 million, while those injured will be compensated between Rs1 million and Rs2 million. Military personnel will receive compensation ranging from Rs10 million to Rs18 million, depending on rank, along with housing assistance between Rs19 million and Rs42 million for families of fallen soldiers.
The government also pledged free medical care for the wounded, reconstruction of damaged homes and mosques, and full educational scholarships up to graduation for children of martyrs. Additionally, one daughter from each martyr’s family will be granted Rs1 million as part of a marriage fund. All individuals who served during the operation will receive national honors.
As calm gradually returns to the region, the armed forces continue to emphasize readiness, unity, and resilience. “Our response was not just military,” said General Munir. “It was a message—that the security and dignity of Pakistan are non-negotiable.”