Islamabad, May 7, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday paid glowing tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces and citizens on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, describing it as a defining chapter in the country’s history marked by courage, unity and national resilience.
In a message to the nation issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar said the anniversary was not merely a remembrance of past events, but a symbol of Pakistan’s unwavering resolve and collective strength in the face of aggression.
“Every soldier stood firm and every citizen stood behind them,” he said, adding that the unity displayed by the Pakistani nation during the conflict became the country’s greatest strength.
The foreign minister lauded the professionalism and bravery of the armed forces, saying Pakistan responded to aggression with “calm resolve and moral clarity” under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He maintained that the country’s response was measured, responsible and guided by principles rather than emotion.
Referring to Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, Dar termed it a decisive and proportionate military response carried out in accordance with the United Nations Charter and Pakistan’s inherent right to self-defence. He said the operation was conducted under the leadership of Asim Munir and targeted only military installations of the aggressor.
The deputy prime minister also praised the operational performance of the Pakistan Air Force under the command of Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, stating that the force achieved significant successes, including the downing of multiple Indian fighter aircraft and the neutralisation of key military targets.
he further commended the Pakistan Navy, led by Naveed Ashraf, for maintaining full operational readiness to counter any threat in the maritime domain.
Dar said Pakistan’s calibrated response had conveyed a clear message to the world that while the country remained committed to peace, it would never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity, dignity or political independence.
Highlighting the diplomatic front, the foreign minister said he and his colleagues in the Foreign Office had undertaken extensive outreach efforts during the crisis to effectively present Pakistan’s position at bilateral and international forums, reinforcing global understanding of Pakistan’s restrained and lawful response.
He reiterated that lasting peace in South Asia could not be achieved without addressing core regional disputes, particularly the issue of Jammu and Kashmir in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
“Pakistan remains committed to regional peace and stability. We believe in dialogue, diplomacy and resolving disputes through justice and mutual respect,” Dar said, while reaffirming that any threat to the country would be met with national unity and an unshakeable resolve.
Calling upon the nation to renew its collective commitment to unity and progress, Dar said the spirit of Marka-e-Haq should inspire Pakistan to emerge stronger not only in defence, but also in economic growth, education and social development.
“The spirit of Marka-e-Haq lives not just in our history, but also in our hearts — now and forever, Inshallah,” he concluded.
