Defense and Martyrs Day: Pakistani Officials Emphasize Strengthening Military and Intelligence Capabilities
According to the English section of webangah News Agency,citing mehr News Agency from Arab News,senior Pakistani officials on Saturday marked the 60th anniversary of defense and Martyrs Day. They highlighted threats arising from psychological warfare, fake news, and misinformation, underscoring the importance of enhancing military power along with intelligence and dialog systems.
This annual commemoration on September 6 honors military personnel and civilians who resisted Indian forces during the 1965 war.
This year’s event took place in the aftermath of a brief but intense escalation with India in May. after four days of clashes between the two countries, a ceasefire was established. unlike six decades ago, this recent confrontation involved advanced weaponry within a framework of nuclear deterrence.
Pakistani civilian and military leaders used this occasion to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening national sovereignty and safeguarding territorial integrity.
President Asif Ali Zardari issued a statement declaring: “As Commander-in-Chief, I am committed to continuously upgrading Pakistan’s defense capabilities. In an era where hybrid warfare employs fifth-generation tools such as disinformation, propaganda, and psychological operations, reinforcing military strength alone is insufficient; we must also fortify our intelligence and communication systems.”
Zardari further stressed that “all branches of government and especially our youth must remain vigilant and united to counter these modern threats with wisdom, resilience, and solidarity.”
Recalling “the sacrifices made during the 1965 war,” he praised the armed forces’ conduct in recent conflicts with India. Their professionalism across land, air, and sea demonstrated that Pakistan’s defense is impenetrable. Zardari reiterated his support for kashmiris’ cause as well as Palestine’s struggle-describing both as ongoing fights for justice and self-determination.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif,in a separate statement praising pakistan’s armed forces on September 6th’s historic victory in 1965 saeid: “Sixty years ago our brave forces repelled aggression with full public support proving that Pakistan is a courageous nation capable of protecting its sovereignty.”
The full text of Shehbaz Sharif’s message reads:
“September 6 remains etched in our national memory as a day of bravery, unity and resolute determination. Sixty years ago our valiant armed forces thwarted enemy aggression backed by unwavering popular support demonstrating that Pakistan is a resilient nation fully capable of defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.The indomitable spirit from 1965 lives on-as seen again during ‘Al-Haq Battle’ operations when our armed forces stood like an iron wall against foreign incursion.”
“Our Army, Navy and Air Force set new standards for excellence through unmatched professionalism combined with advanced combat skills under Field Marshal general Syed Asim Munir-Chief Of Army Staff-defeating enemy pride decisively.”
“We pay tribute to our martyred heroes who sacrificed their lives protecting their homeland alongside all courageous soldiers whose valor inspires future generations.”
“Pakistan remains committed to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement globally; however we cannot ignore persistent provocation by India or evolving regional realities. we will continue strengthening defensive capabilities while confronting state-sponsored terrorism plus foreign proxy elements active along our borders.”
“Our brave armed forces together with law enforcement agencies have achieved significant progress eradicating extremist insurgencies fueled by opposed neighbors-the nation stands firmly behind them until victory is complete.””On this day we reaffirm solidarity with oppressed people living under illegal Indian occupation in Jammu & Kashmir who have endured relentless state terrorism for decades-their quest for freedom will not be suppressed by force.” “We also strongly condemn ongoing crimes committed against Palestinians calling upon international community to act decisively to end Israeli aggressions protect civilians ensure uninterrupted humanitarian aid delivery throughout Gaza.””National defense goes hand-in-hand with economic stability only by transcending personal divisions working toward common good can enduring prosperity self-reliance be achieved.”
“On this Defense & Martyrs Day we renew commitment toward Quaid-e-Azam’s enduring principles Faith Unity Discipline solidifying resolve building secure unified prosperous Pakistan.”
“Long live Pakistani Armed Forces
Long live Pakistan”
Date: September 6 ,2025