ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The nation observed the 60th Defence and Martyrs’ Day with great reverence, as the civil and military leadership came together to honour the martyrs, ghazis, and all defenders of the motherland who safeguarded Pakistan’s sovereignty in 1965 and beyond. This year, the occasion coincided with Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH), adding spiritual depth to the solemn commemoration.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals, followed by special prayers in mosques for national prosperity and the liberation of Kashmir.
Military leadership, including Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, paid rich tributes on behalf of the armed forces. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reiterated that September 6, 1965, remains a symbol of national unity, bravery, and resilience, when Pakistan stood firm against a numerically superior adversary.
The statement underlined that Pakistan’s armed forces continue to stand by the nation in every trial — from guarding borders to providing relief in natural disasters — and warned that any attempt to disrupt peace would meet a befitting and decisive response.
On the civil front, President Asif Ali Zardari hailed the day as a “glorious chapter” in Pakistan’s history, vowing to further strengthen the country’s defence and highlighting the importance of modernising military capabilities against emerging challenges like hybrid warfare. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Kashmir and Palestine in their struggle for justice.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described September 6 as a “symbol of courage, unity, and sacrifice”, saluting the armed forces for their professionalism and urging the nation to uphold Quaid-e-Azam’s principles of faith, unity, and discipline.
As the nation reflected on the sacrifices of its martyrs, Defence Day 2025 served not just as a remembrance of past glories but as a powerful reminder of Pakistan’s collective resolve to remain united, resilient, and ever-prepared to defend its sovereignty.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.