PM: Pakistan’s "courage and faith" won against India in May confrontation

Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has hailed the country’s military for its role in what he described as bringing India “to its knees” during recent hostilities, crediting the armed forces’ strength, courage, and faith for the outcome.

Speaking at a ceremony marking Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day on August 14, Sharif said the nation had endured many difficult challenges over the years but had nonetheless achieved “significant successes and achievements in all areas”, Caliber.Az reports via Pakistani press.

Referring to the escalation with India earlier this year, he stated: “The military might, courage, and faith of our army brought the enemy to its knees. We respectfully remember our martyrs who gave their lives for our freedom and pray for the repose of their souls.” He also emphasised that Pakistan remains committed to addressing both regional and global disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, urging India to show the same willingness—particularly on the Jammu and Kashmir issue.

Sharif’s remarks come in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in May 2025, following a terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 Hindu tourists. India blamed the assault on Pakistan-based militant groups, a charge Islamabad denied. The incident triggered a sharp military escalation, raising fears internationally of a possible nuclear confrontation.

In retaliation for the attack, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged militant infrastructure inside Pakistan with missile strikes. Pakistan responded with drone deployments and airstrikes, leading to intense engagements between the two countries’ air forces. Several Indian aircraft, including a Rafale fighter jet, were reported shot down, while Pakistan suffered substantial damage to its air defence systems.

The clashes prompted urgent diplomatic intervention, with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio directly engaging the leadership of both countries to defuse the crisis. These efforts resulted in a ceasefire agreement, the reopening of airspace on both sides, and the resumption of civilian flights.

However, sporadic ceasefire violations persisted along the Line of Control, with each side accusing the other of provocations. While Islamabad publicly welcomed international mediation in securing the truce, New Delhi maintained that it was achieved through direct military communication between the two capitals.

By Tamilla Hasanova