Marka-i-Haq: PAF vows stronger response to any aggression against Pakistan, says ISPR

RAWALPINDI: On the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq observed on the night of May 6 and 7, the Pakistan Armed Forces, particularly the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), commemorated what the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) described as a defining chapter in the nation’s military history.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the ISPR said the occasion strengthened national confidence, reaffirmed institutional resolve and validated PAF’s pursuit of modernization and focused capability enhancement.

The military’s media wing stated that the milestone reflected “Pakistan Air Force’s steadfast journey towards becoming a future-ready air power through smart inductions of cutting-edge systems and swift operationalization of niche and disruptive technologies, consolidating its operational reorientation.”

Highlighting the use of modern warfare strategies, the statement said, “By mastering the skillful employment of Multi-domain Operations, Pakistan Air Force continues to consolidate itself into a future-focused and capable air power, fully prepared to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan in the face of the evolving nature and parameters of modern air warfare.”

The ISPR said the successful execution of these operations was unprecedented in scope and renewed the pride and confidence of the nation.

“Pakistan is a peace-loving country, and its Armed Forces embody a mature and responsible strategic culture,” the statement read, adding that all efforts of the armed forces remain dedicated to preserving peace, promoting stability and ensuring security in the region.

Referring to the changing regional security environment, the ISPR said Pakistan Armed Forces remained fully aware of evolving geopolitical challenges and the aggressive capability pursuits of adversarial forces.

“While the strategic environment continues to transform, the resolve, vigilance and commitment of Pakistan Armed Forces to defend the nation remain unwavering,” the statement said.

It further added, “Pakistan Armed Forces continue to invest in critical capabilities, advanced technologies and professional excellence required to meet future challenges. More focused than ever before, they stand prepared for the future battlespace and remain ready to decisively respond to any aggression imposed upon the homeland.”

Reiterating the military’s resolve, the ISPR stated, “Any hostile design against Pakistan will be countered with even greater strength, precision and resolve far stronger than what was witnessed by the adversary during Marka-e-Haq, Insha’Allah.”

Paying tribute to PAF personnel, the statement said the nation acknowledged every member of the force for their professionalism, sacrifice and operational focus that remained pivotal in the defence of Pakistan’s airspace.

“Pakistan Air Force is and InshaAllah will remain Second to None, worthy of being symbol of pride, strength and confidence for this great nation,” the ISPR concluded.

“Pakistan hamesha Zindabad !”

PAF chief says May 2025 success was result of years of modernisation

Separately, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu addressed a ceremony held in connection with the commemoration of Marka-i-Haq, stating that India had blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam incident without presenting any evidence and had taken “immature and hasty measures” that escalated tensions in the region.

He said Pakistan’s political leadership had condemned the incident and extended an offer of cooperation, but due to the hostile rhetoric and escalatory posture adopted by the other side, Pakistan’s armed forces were compelled to take precautionary defensive measures.

According to the air chief, PAF closely monitored every movement of the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the period leading up to the military confrontation.

He stated that when India carried out attacks during the early hours of May 7, 2025, PAF immediately mobilised its fighter aircraft in response.

“Despite being outnumbered, PAF fought aggressively, denying the enemy the opportunity to enter our airspace. The enemy was compelled to stay at a distance from our borders.”

The air chief said PAF adopted a defensive posture after India fired weapons from within its own territory. “Within minutes, multiple jets … were shot down. This devastating blow shocked the enemy and IAF was not seen in the air for the remainder of the conflict,” he said.

He further claimed that none of the drones launched towards Pakistan were permitted to return.

“For the first time in the history of air warfare, PAF conducted full-spectrum multi-domain operations. The world was stunned to witness this superb execution of PAF’s operations that were excellently choreographed and flawlessly executed,” he said.

Describing the outcome as a result of national coordination and divine support, he remarked, “This resounding success was the outcome of a unified approach by all elements of national power and God’s special blessing. PAF could have gone further but we exercised maturity.”

Reflecting on the military preparedness behind the operation, he stated, “What the world witnessed in May 2025 was not achieved overnight but acquired through our transformative modernisation undertaken within the past four to five years.”

The PAF chief also praised the professionalism and courage of PAF personnel, saying the nation took pride in their bravery. He added that the success demonstrated the strong coordination among the three armed services and reflected the firm resolve of the country’s leadership.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, in his message, said the occasion represented far more than a symbolic date.

“It is a story of courage, unity and unwavering resolve — a story where every soldier stood firm and every citizen stood behind them.”

He paid tribute to the armed forces and the people of Pakistan for standing united during the difficult time.

“On this day, we salute the bravery of our armed forces, our sons and daughters, who rose with discipline and determination to defend our homeland,” he said.

“We also salute the people of Pakistan whose unity became our strength, because when a nation stands as one, no force on earth can shake its foundation,” he said.

Dar said Pakistan’s response to aggression under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership remained balanced and responsible.

“Our response was measured, responsible and precise, guided not by emotion but by principle,” he said.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, Dar said the country believed in diplomatic engagement and peaceful conflict resolution.

“We believe in dialogue, in diplomacy, and in resolving disputes through justice and mutual respect,” he said.

“At the same time, we reaffirm that any threat to our homeland will be met with national unity, unshakable resolve, and strength through all means available,” it added.