Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif hailed Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos as a landmark moment in Pakistan’s military history, crediting it with restoring national unity and confidence against Indian aggression.
Speaking to students and teachers at his residence in Sialkot, Asif said India was left “licking its wounds” after Pakistan’s decisive military response. He warned that any threats on the western front would meet a similar fate if Pakistan’s sovereignty was challenged.
Avoiding a direct reply to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Asif noted that India’s internal criticism had said more than Pakistan ever could. He highlighted that the operation took place during a period of visible division within Pakistan but ultimately helped restore cohesion through the bravery of the armed forces.
Asif praised the leadership of Army Chief General Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar, Naval Chief Naveed Ashraf, and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad, describing their efforts as emotionally charged and spiritually driven.
He also commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for fully supporting the military throughout the crisis. Emphasizing the unity between the civilian government and armed forces, Asif said this cooperation sent a strong message of national resolve, affirming Pakistan’s commitment to defending its homeland at all costs.
In closing, Asif stressed the importance of remembering history, warning that nations that forget their past risk being forgotten themselves.