- Armed forces reiterate their commitment to defend national sovereignty.
- Pakistan Day reminds unity behind the creation of homeland: ISPR.
- Military, public united against terrorism and extremism: ISPR.
RAWALPINDI: The armed forces of Pakistan on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to defend national sovereignty, fight terrorism and ensure internal security, saying they remain unwavering in their resolve to root out threats to the country’s security.
Pakistan Day, celebrated on 23 March every year, commemorates the passing of the Lahore Resolution on 23 March 1940, when the All-India Muslim League demanded a separate nation for the Muslims of the British Indian Empire.
In a statement marking the 86th anniversary of Pakistan Day, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the country continues to confront the threat of terrorism and extremism, adding that the armed forces, in coordination with law enforcement agencies and the public, remain steadfast in ensuring national security.
The statement said the armed forces reaffirm their continued commitment to defend the country’s borders, secure sovereignty and maintain internal stability against all forms of aggression and terrorism.
Chief of Defense Staff (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu hailed the spirit of the people and hailed their resilience.
Recalling the significance of 23 March 1940, the declaration described it as a defining moment that laid the foundation for an independent homeland that reflected the collective vision and determination of the Muslims of the subcontinent.
It said Pakistan continues to make progress under democratic principles, guided by faith, hope and resilience, while remaining committed to strengthening state institutions and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
Highlighting Pakistan’s global role, the ISPR said the country stands as a responsible member of the international community advocating peace, stability and cooperation.
The ISPR added that the nation, united in purpose, continues its journey forward with resilience and a firm commitment to long-term prosperity.
The statement comes as the Pakistani army responded to the Afghan Taliban’s unprovoked attacks, which resulted in the killing of more than 700 Taliban activists and outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants and the destruction of several key Afghan infrastructures.
Meanwhile, Pakistan announced a temporary pause in the ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against terrorists in view of the Islamic festival of Eid ul Fitr.
In an X post, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that on Islamabad’s own initiative as well as at the request of the brotherly Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye, the government has decided to announce a temporary pause in the ongoing military operation against the terrorists.
“The break shall apply from midnight on 18/19 March 2026 to midnight on 23/24 March 2026,” he added. The minister also said that Islamabad is offering the gesture in good faith and in accordance with the Islamic norms.
