By Ijaz Ahmad Khan
TORONTO: The entire nation commemorate the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, in which Pakistan has achieved a historic victory against a much larger adversary and emerged stronger on its military, diplomatic and strategic fronts.
Marka-e-Haq, spanning April 22 to May 10, 2025, is marked across Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, to pay homage to the brave armed forces and acknowledge the steadfast resolve of the elected government and national leadership.
On Thursday, the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa paid glowing tributes to the defenders of Pakistan for defeating a three-times larger enemy India one year ago, a great achievement widely described as a defining moment in the country’s defence history.
From Khyber to Kohistan and Waziristan to Chitral, large rallies, public gatherings and commemorative events were organized to celebrate the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, where participants raised enthusiastic slogans in support of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, CDF/COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and all Pakistan Armed Forces, reaffirming their strong commitment to national unity and sovereignty.
A major rally held at Pabbi, Nowshera of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, drew political workers, youth, civil society representatives and local elders in large number and raised the Pakistani flag and photos of the services chiefs.
Speakers at the gathering highly praised the courage, professionalism and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces for frustrating the enemy’s nefarious designs and safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.
President PML-N Nowshera Sahibzada Hamza said the completion of one year of Marka-e-Haq marks a defining chapter in Pakistan’s defence history. He described it as a symbol of resilience, unity, courage and unwavering determination of the Pakistani nation. The achievements associated with Marka-e-Haq strengthened Pakistan’s confidence, elevated its regional standing and revived a renewed spirit of patriotism across the country.
“Marka-e-Haq emerged at a critical moment when Pakistan’s sovereignty and authority was challenged by the enemy,” he said, adding the people of Pakistan, alongside security forces, state institutions, demonstrated exemplary unity and determination that transformed challenges into opportunities and laid the foundation for historic success.
He said one of the greatest achievements of Marka-e-Haq was the reaffirmation of protection of Pakistan’s sovereignty and national pride, proving that the country possessed the capability and resolve to defend its interests against all odds.
“The sacrifices rendered by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and ordinary citizens played a vital role in ensuring peace and stability,” he remarked.
“Their bravery reminded the nation that progress and peace are only possible through collective responsibility and national unity.”
Referring to the economic dimension, Sahibzada Hamza said Pakistan demonstrated resilience despite global economic challenges. He said that the spirit of self-reliance and unity promoted during Marka-e-Haq encouraged industries, businesses and youth to contribute positively toward national development.
He said investor confidence improved, while several development initiatives reflected Pakistan’s determination to move forward with optimism and stability.
“Another important outcome of Marka-e-Haq, he said, was the revival of national morale and patriotic spirit among Pakistanis at home and abroad. Educational institutions, social organizations and media platforms actively promoted themes of unity, patriotism and national service, particularly among the younger generation during Maraka e Haq.”
Manzoorul Haq, former Ambassador said Pakistan effectively conveyed its position to the international community with confidence and clarity against the unprovoked attacks by India in mid night of May 6 last year.
Through balanced diplomacy and responsible leadership, he said the country strengthened ties with friendly nations and reinforced its commitment to regional peace, stability and cooperation besides exposed the evil face of India before world.
The speakers observed that the success of Marka-e-Haq carried a vital lesson for the future that nations achieve greatness when their people stand united above political and personal differences.
Former Chairman, IR Department, University of Peshawar, Professor Dr. Adnan Sarwar Khan while talking to this reporter, said Marka-e-Haq embodied the resilience, bravery and determination of the Pakistani nation and demonstrated the country’s ability to overcome both internal and external challenges without compromising its sovereignty.
He said Pakistan was left with no option but to launch the decisive operation in response to India’s missiles and drone strikes on the night of May 6-7, 2025, which killed civilian populations in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.
“Operation Iron Wall proved to be more than just a military success. It became a turning point in the regional balance of power and demonstrated that Pakistan’s armed forces are battle-hardened, professionally capable and spiritually resolute,” he said.
Professor Dr Naushad, former VC Islamia College Peshawar University said that Marka-e-Haq acted as a catalyst for national unity and patriotism, inspiring youth to contribute toward national development and reconnecting the country with the founding principles of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah based on unity, faith and discipline.
He said the synergy between national leadership and public support reflected a collective national will to confront external threats and terrorism.
He said Pakistan emerged stronger globally after the success of Marka-e-Haq, with its diplomatic and defence standing reaching new heights.
He said Pakistan’s focus on protecting territorial integrity under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter reflected the country’s uncompromising commitment to defend itself against external aggression.
Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos delivered a strong response to enemy aggression and demonstrated Pakistan’s capability to defend itself effectively on all fronts.
He observed that the issue of Jammu and Kashmir gained renewed international attention following Marka-e-Haq, while Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts received appreciation at global forums.
He said Marka-e-Haq significantly revitalized Pakistan’s defence capabilities through technological advancement, operational preparedness and strategic coordination.
He said the Pakistan Air Force earned international recognition for its professionalism, operational excellence and advanced defence capabilities during the conflict.
According to defence analysts, Marka-e-Haq also strengthened public confidence in national institutions and supported efforts aimed at economic recovery and attracting international investment.
They said that under the leadership of PM Shahbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan successfully defended its sovereignty while reinforcing its commitment to peace, regional stability and economic progress.
The experts said Marka-e-Haq reignited the spirit of patriotism, unity and national identity envisioned by Pakistan’s founding fathers led by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal and upheld Iqbal’s Khudi.
As the nation commemorates victory of one year of Marka-e-Haq, analysts believe it is also a moment of reflection, pride and renewed commitment toward economic stability, educational reform, technological advancement and social development.
They emphasized that the spirit of unity, determination and sacrifice demonstrated during Marka-e-Haq must continue to guide Pakistan toward a brighter, stronger and more prosperous future.
In conclusion, one year of Marka-e-Haq symbolizes not merely a historical defence milestone but the resilience, courage and unity of the Pakistani nation.
The achievements associated with Marka Haq will continue to inspire future generations and serve as a testament to Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty, dignity and progress.
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