Youm-e-Takbeer marks a defining moment in Pakistan’s history when the entire nation demonstrated unwavering resolve, national unity, and extraordinary courage by emerging as a nuclear power. On 28 May 1998, in response to India’s nuclear tests, Pakistan successfully conducted nuclear tests, not only restoring the strategic balance in South Asia but also sending a clear message to the world that Pakistan would never compromise on its defence and sovereignty.
This historic day stands as testimony that the defence of the God-gifted nation envisioned by Allama Muhammad Iqbal and founded by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah remains in strong and secure hands.
Today, we pay tribute to all those who played a pivotal role in making Pakistan’s nuclear programme a success, including the visionary leadership of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the resolute decision-making and courageous leadership of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, and our national heroes Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and Dr. Samar Mubarakmand. We also salute the countless scientists, engineers, experts, members of the Armed Forces, and dedicated workers whose contributions made Pakistan’s defence impregnable.
India carried out its nuclear tests driven by war hysteria, extremist thinking, and expansionist ambitions. Pakistan responded with wisdom and resolve, crushing the enemy’s designs through timely and decisive action. Despite immense international pressure, economic coercion, threats of sanctions, and even lucrative financial incentives aimed at dissuading Pakistan from conducting the tests, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif remained steadfast and refused to compromise on Pakistan’s freedom, dignity, and sovereignty.
Youm-e-Takbeer is not merely a remembrance of nuclear tests; it symbolizes national self-respect, unity, sacrifice, and the unshakeable commitment to the defence of the homeland. By consistently advancing Pakistan’s nuclear programme, our predecessors proved that nothing is more important than national honour and security. Had Pakistan not become a nuclear power, the enemy could have pursued its malicious designs without restraint. Pakistan’s strong nuclear deterrence, coupled with the preparedness and resolve of its Armed Forces, remains a decisive barrier against hostile ambitions.
Through our resolute response to enemy aggression during Maarka-e-Haq, we have once again demonstrated our unwavering determination. India staged the Pahalgam false flag operation as part of its worn-out conspiracy and used it as a pretext to attack Pakistani civilians and mosques. However, our Armed Forces and the nation stood united like Bunyan-un-Marsoos, not only defeating the enemy’s objectives but also shattering its arrogance regarding military and numerical superiority.
Under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff and the Chiefs of the Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, our Armed Forces displayed exemplary professionalism and operational excellence. The remarkable leadership of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar, and Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, further reinforced Pakistan’s strength and valour in the face of aggression.
We have made it unequivocally clear to the world that Pakistan harbours no aggressive intentions; however, we fully reserve the right to defend our homeland.
Following its humiliating defeat in Maarka-e-Haq, the enemy has resorted to indirect means to undermine Pakistan’s security. Through proxies such as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, hostile elements continue to pursue their nefarious agenda, with facilitation from the Afghan regime. Pakistan remains firmly committed to eliminating these threats at their roots.
Just as Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos delivered a crushing defeat to our eternal enemy, Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq will eradicate all such hostile networks and their facilitators.
The enemy must harbour no illusions: Pakistan’s brave Armed Forces, equipped with the most modern capabilities, remain fully prepared to defend every inch of the motherland.
The nation will forever remain grateful to these heroes and benefactors.
On this occasion, let us renew our pledge to remain united for the peace, progress, stability, and security of our beloved country;to confront every internal and external conspiracy with determination; and to dedicate all our energies and resources towards making Pakistan a strong, prosperous, and dignified Forces
