Kamra: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday declared that Pakistan had dismantled the myth of India’s regional military supremacy, a perception built on New Delhi’s multi-billion-dollar defence acquisitions.
The prime minister made the remarks during a high-profile visit to the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) operational base in Kamra, where he was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Upon arrival, PM Shehbaz was received by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. He was briefed on the PAF’s combat readiness and strategic capabilities, according to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
During the visit, the prime minister interacted with frontline personnel, including pilots, engineers, and technical staff, and commended their professionalism, precision, and commitment to national defence.
“In the wake of unprovoked aggression, Pakistan’s Armed Forces exhibited exemplary restraint, strategic foresight, and operational precision,” the prime minister said in his address. “Their swift and calibrated response not only neutralised the threat but also delivered a decisive blow to hostile military infrastructure, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to protect its sovereignty.”
He underscored that the armed forces’ retaliation was a display of maturity and strength, saying Pakistan’s response was “measured, deliberate, and devastating.”
PAF Downs Sixth Indian Jet
Highlighting the PAF’s combat success, PM Shehbaz confirmed the downing of a sixth Indian aircraft— a Mirage-2000—on the night of May 6-7 near Pampore, east of Srinagar. “This stands as further testament to the PAF’s operational excellence and the unwavering determination of our Armed Forces,” he said.
He praised Air Chief Marshal Zaheer for his transformative leadership in integrating advanced technologies and modernising the air force.
“To our fearless pilots and dedicated air personnel — your courage and precision reflect the indomitable spirit of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. You have upheld the sanctity of our skies with unwavering resolve,” he stated.
Read More: India, Pakistan DGMOs Hold Third Hotline Talk to Sustain Ceasefire
Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos
The prime minister’s visit follows a week of heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan. The escalation began on May 7, when unprovoked Indian missile and drone strikes killed at least 31 civilians across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). In retaliation, Pakistan launched “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” targeting 26 Indian military sites using long-range precision-guided Fatah missiles and PAF munitions.
According to the ISPR, Pakistan successfully downed six Indian fighter jets—including three Rafale—and dozens of drones during the four-day standoff, which also resulted in the martyrdom of at least 11 Pakistani soldiers and 40 civilians.
Ceasefire Extended
The U.S.-brokered ceasefire, announced last Saturday by President Donald Trump, brought a temporary halt to the hostilities. On Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that the ceasefire had been extended until May 18 following renewed diplomatic engagement.
“We Stand United”
PM Shehbaz concluded his remarks by reaffirming the government’s unwavering support for the armed forces: “Pakistan’s Armed Forces remain fully prepared and committed to defending every inch of our territory. Any act of aggression will be met with a timely, proportionate, and decisive response. We stand united, vigilant, and unshakable.”
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