Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded Pakistan’s armed forces for their prompt and decisive retaliation against Indian military actions, stating they “silenced the enemy’s guns within hours” and turned hostile installations into ashes. His remarks came in a televised address to the nation following a US-brokered ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Referring to the escalation that began on May 7, when an unprovoked Indian cross-border attack killed at least 31 civilians, including children, PM Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s powerful counteroffensive. In response, the Pakistan Air Force downed five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and intercepted dozens of enemy drones.
India had escalated tensions by launching drone incursions and missile attacks targeting multiple Pakistani airbases such as Nur Khan, Murid, and Shorkot. Pakistan’s military neutralized nearly 80 drones, including Israeli-made IAI Herons, and responded with “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” striking key Indian military targets, including missile storage sites.
Acknowledging the diplomatic breakthrough, US President Donald Trump announced a full and immediate ceasefire following intensive negotiations. “Congratulations to both countries for choosing wisdom and diplomacy,” he posted on Truth Social.
Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, explaining that the ceasefire offer was a responsible step aimed at preserving stability and protecting millions of lives in South Asia. He expressed hope that long-standing disputes, such as Jammu and Kashmir and water-sharing, would now be addressed through peaceful dialogue.
Commending the resolve of the Pakistani nation, he said, “The people stood firm like an iron wall, showing the world that their dignity and sovereignty mean more than life itself.” He condemned India’s actions as cowardly and provocative, accusing New Delhi of attempting to drag Pakistan into war under false pretenses following the Pahalgam incident. Despite offering full cooperation for an impartial investigation, Pakistan was met with aggression.
Shehbaz highlighted the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces, stating their swift and powerful response would be remembered as a milestone in modern military history. “Negotiations, once possible at the table, had to be conducted on the battlefield due to the enemy’s actions,” he remarked, praising the military’s courage and discipline.
He also underscored the broader ideological conflict, calling it a battle against a mindset of religious extremism. “This was a victory for our values, truth, and national integrity,” the PM said.
He paid heartfelt tributes to the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza; Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir; Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu; Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf; and all military personnel. Special acknowledgment was given to General Munir for his bold and wise leadership and to the Air Force for its outstanding performance.
PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude to President Trump and nations including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Türkiye, Qatar, the UK, and China for supporting the ceasefire efforts. He made particular mention of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President Erdogan, and President Xi Jinping for their brotherly solidarity and unprecedented backing.
He also remembered the sacrifices made by martyrs like Irtaza Abbas Shaheed and offered condolences to all bereaved families.
Acknowledging the rare political unity during the crisis, Shehbaz thanked both ruling and opposition leaders, especially Nawaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari, for their guidance and support. He praised the media and social media communities for countering disinformation with responsibility and professionalism.
Concluding his address, PM Shehbaz expressed confidence that with the crisis behind them, Pakistan’s leadership and institutions would now focus their energies on development and prosperity, aiming to elevate the country’s stature on the global stage.
