Kachehri Chowk corridor opens for traffic

The state-of-the-art District Courts Chowk underpasses and overhead bridges project has formally been completed, with all inauguration arrangements now finalised ahead of the official opening scheduled for Sunday afternoon. The mega infrastructure development, officially designated "Marka-e-Haq Square", comprises two flyovers, three underpasses, and two steel pedestrian overhead bridges. The project has reportedly been completed within 187 days at an estimated cost of approximately Rs19 billion. Construction work on the project commenced on November 3, 2025. To expedite progress, construction operations reportedly continued in three shifts around the clock, enabling the scheme to be completed ahead of schedule. An inauguration plaque bearing the name of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has already been installed, while a full ceremonial rehearsal for the opening event has also been concluded. Immediately following the inauguration, the interchange is expected to be opened to uninterrupted signal-free traffic. Amid stringent confidentiality and limited public visibility, final preparations for the formal inauguration of the Kachehri Chowk flyover have entered their concluding phase. Development activity continued at an accelerated pace, with extensive landscaping and finishing works carried out across the site. Large ornamental trees, flowering plants, and decorative foliage were transported on heavy trailers and installed around the interchange, while fresh turfing was laid along the flyover corridors, adjoining service roads, and surrounding verges. Testing of the LED illumination and decorative lighting systems was completed overnight. More than 100 sanitary personnel were reportedly deployed on an emergency basis to undertake cleaning and site preparation, while carpeting and final finishing works have also been completed. CM Maryam is expected to attend the inauguration as the chief guest. Aamir Khattak and Hassan Waqar Cheema will host the ceremony. Official invitations have been issued, while comprehensive security directives have also been finalised. The Kachehri Chowk development is being described as one of Rawalpindi's most sophisticated urban infrastructure schemes. Since November 2025, the projected cost has reportedly increased progressively, approaching nearly Rs19b owing to the expansion of the elevated crossing component. The wider scheme includes underpasses, overhead bridges, and a modern six-sided pedestrian crossing bridge, which is said to be in the final stages of completion. Landscaping beneath the flyovers has been finalised, while lighting and traffic signalling systems are now fully operational. Carpeting work on both flyovers and all four adjoining service roads has likewise been completed. Following the opening of Maarka-e-Haq Square, uninterrupted traffic flow is expected along Mall Road, Jhelum Road, Rashid Minhas Road, Old Airport Road, and adjoining arteries, substantially reducing long-standing congestion across the city. Residents have welcomed the timely completion of the project and expressed optimism that it will significantly improve urban mobility within Rawalpindi. Digital display screens installed at Maarka-e-Haq Square feature images of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir, PML-N Patron Nawaz Sharif and Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz. A commemorative white marble gateway associated with Maarka-e-Haq Buny?n al-Mars?s has also been erected, while the renaming of Kachehri Chowk has been presented as a tribute to personnel of the Pakistan Armed Forces who participated in the operation.

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Nation rallies behind forces on Marka-e-Haq first anniversary

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan can neither be "intimidated nor subdued by any aggressor" as the nation prepares to mark the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq today with a high-profile ceremony at the General Headquarters (GHQ). The prestigious ceremony commemorating Pakistan's historic success in Marka-e-Haq will be held on Sunday at GHQ, with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Staff (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir attending as the chief guest. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf will also participate in the event. The ceremony will begin with the laying of a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada, where smartly turned-out contingents of the three armed forces will present a salute. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir will address the gathering and deliver an important speech highlighting the significance of Marka-e-Haq and the sacrifices rendered for the defence of the country. In a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military said that the brief conflict demonstrated Pakistan's measured and resolute response and "exposed adversarial conspiracies, false flag narratives and disinformation campaigns, diminishing their credibility internationally". The ISPR said that Marka-e-Haq is a "defining landmark" in the nation's journey. "Marka-i-Haq has become a defining landmark in the nation's journey, reflecting national resolve, military excellence, and strategic maturity." "Despite facing conventional and hybrid challenges, including proxy terrorism, the Armed Forces demonstrated superior operational competence across land, air, sea, cyber, and information domains," the statement added. According to ISPR, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf also congratulated the nation and all ranks of the armed forces on the day. The statement added that the anniversary is being observed with "deep reverence, gratitude, and national fervour", adding that the day stands as a testament to the "enduring spirit of courage, professionalism, and unity". In the aftermath of Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan bolstered its defence capabilities and reinforced full-spectrum deterrence despite a disparity in resources, ISPR stated, adding that the occasion is a testament to the military's "preparedness, dedication, and professionalism, which decisively strengthened public confidence in their armed forces". "The anniversary also reaffirms Pakistan's steadfast commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty while promoting peace and stability in the region," the statement read. "Pakistan believes that sustainable peace in South Asia can only be achieved through meaningful dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law and principles of justice." 'Peace-loving yet courageous' President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the nation and the armed forces on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. According to a statement issued by the President's Office, the president said CDF Munir's leadership, strategy and "courageous decisions" were key to the success of Marka-e-Haq. He also lauded the air chief and the Pakistan Air Force for their "exceptional skill and professionalism". President Zardari praised the naval chief and naval forces, describing their full operational readiness and defence capabilities as a source of national pride. "Pakistan is a responsible and peace-loving state. By giving a strong but measured response to enemy aggression, we have conveyed our defensive capability to the world," the president said. He added that the issue of Jammu and Kashmir must be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions.   PM Shehbaz Sharif "Marka-e-Haq bears testimony that Pakistanis are a peace-loving, yet courageous, resilient, and dignified nation who can neither be intimidated nor subdued by any aggressor," the premier said in a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Expressing gratitude to the Almighty, the prime minister said the day commemorates Pakistan's "valiant stand in adversity" and the "crushing defeat" inflicted upon India. "The nation pays tribute to its martyrs, their families and the ghazis who stood like a steel wall to defend their homeland," the statement said. The premier said the well-coordinated and synchronised response by Pakistan's armed forces across land, sea, air and cyber domains established Pakistan as an "invincible nation". He said Marka-e-Haq is etched in history as an "epic feat of achieving overwhelming dominance over an enemy, bent on unprovoked aggression". PM Shehbaz maintained that India was administered a "heavy dose of reality serum to dispel its illusion of invincibility". He maintained that there should be no doubt that any aggression aimed at undermining the country would be met with an immediate, befitting and full-spectrum response, adding that the nation "stand determined and vigilant to ensure security" along its frontiers. The premier also paid tribute to Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his bold and courageous leadership, and to Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber and Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf for their strategic prudence, the statement added. "We also salute officers and soldiers of the valiant Armed Forces, who, with unflinching support of the Pakistani nation, inscribed a new chapter in Pakistan-India context," the PMO statement said. He maintained that Pakistan clearly demonstrated its desire for peace during the conflict, while also re-establishing deterrence and safeguarding its security, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Referring to terrorism in Pakistan, the prime minister said the nation remains "steadfast in our efforts to root out 'Fitna al Khawarij' and 'Fitna al Hindustan' and take the fight against terrorism to its logical conclusion". On IIOJK, the premier maintained that it remains an unfinished agenda of Partition and that strategic stability in the region would remain a distant dream without resolution of the Kashmir issue. "Strategic stability in South Asia, without the resolution of Kashmir issue, would remain a distant dream which needs to be resolved in accordance with the United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan shall continue to stand by the fundamental right of freedom and self-determination of Kashmiri people," the statement said. Prime Minister Shehbaz further said that, a year on, Pakistan is recognised as a responsible nation that "not only knows how to defend itself, but has also emerged as a guarantor of global peace and stability". Touching on recent efforts to end the Iran-US conflict, the premier said the country had earned worldwide acknowledgement for its role as a key mediator and its efforts to end the violence. "Commemorating the sacrifices of our martyrs during Marka-e-Haq, let us pledge to face our adversaries like a 'Steel Wall' and work selflessly for the destined glory of this great homeland," the statement concluded.

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PTI reiterates demand for SC-led judicial commission on May 9 events

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Saturday reiterated its demand for the formation of an immediate judicial commission comprising senior judges of the Supreme Court to conduct a “transparent, impartial and credible” probe into the events of May 9, 2023, riots while also calling for the release of party founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. The riots erupted nationwide following Imran's arrest, after which PTI leaders and workers staged protests targeting both civil and military installations, including Jinnah House and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. The military condemned the events as a "Black Day" and decided to try the protesters under the Army Act. Read: ATC sentences 47 PTI leaders to 10 years in May 9 GHQ attack case In a post on X, PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram described May 9 as “a black day in Pakistan’s political history”, saying the arrest of Imran from the premises of the Islamabad High Court violated “the sanctity of the judiciary” and set “a dangerous precedent of state oppression and fascism”. “This action was an open violation of the Constitution, the law and fundamental human rights,” he said. The PTI spokesperson said the party had, from the outset, demanded “transparent, impartial, and independent investigations” into the May 9 events and continued to stand by that demand. 9 مئی پاکستان کی سیاسی تاریخ کا ایک سیاہ دن ہے، جب قوم کے مقبول ترین قائد عمران خان کو اسلام آباد ہائی کورٹ کے احاطے سے گرفتار کر کے نہ صرف عدالتی تقدس پامال کیا گیا بلکہ ریاستی جبر اور فسطائیت کی ایک خطرناک مثال قائم کی گئی۔ یہ اقدام آئین، قانون اور بنیادی انسانی حقوق کی کھلی… — Sheikh Waqas Akram (@SheikhWaqqas) May 9, 2026 “We have repeatedly made it clear that a judicial commission comprising serving senior judges of the Supreme Court should be established to bring all facts before the nation,” he said. Raising questions over the alleged disappearance of CCTV footage related to the incidents, he said its absence had deepened concerns over the credibility of the investigation process. “Where exactly is that footage which could have determined the truth from falsehood?” he asked, adding that its unavailability strengthened the impression that facts were being deliberately concealed. Referring to repeated demands made by the PTI founder, he said the former prime minister had consistently called for an independent judicial commission to identify those responsible for the events. “But alas, to this day, neither has a judicial commission been established nor has the truth been told to the nation. This conduct is contrary to the requirements of justice,” he added. Akram alleged that after May 9, thousands of PTI workers, including women, were arrested and detained for months, while several individuals were sentenced “without concrete evidence”. “These actions are not only violations of human rights but also reflect the illegitimate use of state power,” he said. Also Read: The May 9 saga The PTI leader maintained that the party respected defence institutions and believed institutional strength could only be ensured through “justice, transparency, and the rule of law”. “We once again demand an immediate judicial commission comprising senior judges of the Supreme Court be established. All CCTV footage of May 9 be brought into the public domain,” he said. He also demanded the immediate release of Imran, Bushra Bibi and “innocent arrested individuals, especially women”. “The real culprits be brought to justice according to the law,” he added. “The nation awaits the truth. No matter how much facts are suppressed, they will surely come to light one day or another,” he said, adding that PTI would continue its struggle for “the supremacy of the Constitution” and restoration of public trust. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also demanded the immediate release of footage related to the May 9 incidents, describing the day as “a black day in the history of Pakistan”. “After May 9, fake rulers were imposed on the country, who spared no effort in the destruction of Pakistan and the Pakistani people,” he said. 9 مئی پاکستان کی تاریخ کا ایک سیاہ دن، جسے تاریخ ہمیشہ یاد رکھے گی۔ 9 مئی کے بعد جعلی حکمرانوں کو ملک پر مسلط کیا گیا، جنہوں نے پاکستان اور پاکستانی عوام کی تباہی میں کوئی کسر نہیں چھوڑی۔ ان حکمرانوں نے نہ صرف ملکی معیشت کو نقصان پہنچایا بلکہ ریاستی اداروں کو بھی کمزور کیا اور… — Sohail Afridi (@SohailAfridiISF) May 9, 2026 He alleged that the rulers had weakened state institutions, damaged the economy and widened the gap between the people and institutions. Referring to the CCTV footage controversy, the chief minister said serious questions remained unanswered regarding the events. “To this day, the CCTV footage of the incident has not been shown. That is why my leader Imran Khan Sahib had said: ‘Whoever stole the CCTV footage orchestrated 9 May.’”

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Civil, military leadership assert full-spectrum response to any aggression on Marka-e-Haq's 1st anniversary

Pakistan’s civil and military leadership on Saturday renewed their pledge to defend the country, warning that any aggression aimed at undermining it would be met with an “immediate, befitting and full-spectrum response” as the nation marked the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. The term “Marka-e-Haq” refers to the 2025 conflict with India, which began with the April 22 Pahalgam attack and concluded with a ceasefire on May 10 following Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the prime minister paid tribute to the martyrs and their families, saying they stood like a steel wall in defence of the homeland. “Marka-e-Haq is a day to bow in gratitude before Allah Almighty for His countless blessings upon us. Today, we commemorate Pakistan’s valiant stand in adversity and the crushing defeat we inflicted on the enemy,” he said. Praising the armed forces, he said their well-coordinated and synchronised response across land, sea, air and cyber domains had established Pakistan as an invincible nation. He added that Marka-e-Haq stood as testimony that Pakistanis were a peace-loving, yet courageous, resilient and dignified nation “who can neither be intimidated nor subdued by any aggressor”. “Marka-e-Haq is etched in history as an epic feat of achieving overwhelming dominance over an enemy, bent on unprovoked aggression. The enemy was administered a heavy dose of reality serum to dispel its illusion of invincibility,” the prime minister said. As the nation commemorates the glorious success of Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, we thank Allah Almighty and pay tribute to the extraordinary courage, unwavering resolve, and supreme sacrifices of our Armed Forces and the people of Pakistan. In the face of… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 9, 2026 Paying tribute to Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, the premier lauded his leadership, alongside the air chief and naval chief, as well as officers and soldiers of the armed forces, who, with the support of the nation, “inscribed a new chapter in the Pakistan-India context”. “Pakistan clearly manifested its desire for peace, while re-establishing deterrence and safeguarding its security, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said. “Let there be no doubt that any aggression to undermine Pakistan will be met with an immediate, befitting and full-spectrum response,” the prime minister warned. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to defend the motherland, saying: “We remain steadfast in our efforts to root out" terrorist groups and take the fight against them to its logical conclusion. The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to the Kashmir dispute, reiterating Islamabad’s continued support for the Kashmiri people’s fundamental right to freedom and self-determination. “No story of Pakistan is complete without Kashmir, which remains the unfinished agenda of the subcontinent’s partition. Strategic stability in South Asia, without the resolution of the Kashmir issue, would remain a distant dream which needs to be resolved in accordance with the United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people,” he added. Highlighting Pakistan’s enhanced international image since last year’s victory and its mediation role in the US-Iran conflict, he said the country was now recognised as a responsible state that not only knew how to defend itself but had also emerged as a contributor to global peace and stability. “Pakistan’s pivotal role as a key mediator during the ongoing US-Iran conflict and our efforts to seek an end to violence have earned worldwide acknowledgement,” he said, adding that Islamabad remained committed to the peaceful resolution of conflicts. President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the nation and armed forces on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. According to a statement issued by the President’s Office, the president said CDF Munir’s leadership, strategy and “courageous decisions” were key to the success of Marka-e-Haq. He also lauded the air chief and the Pakistan Air Force for their “exceptional skill and professionalism”. President Zardari praised the naval chief and forces, describing their full operational readiness and defence capabilities as a source of national pride. “Pakistan is a responsible and peace-loving state. By giving a strong but measured response to enemy aggression, we have conveyed our defensive capability to the world,” the president said. He said the issue of Jammu and Kashmir must be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions. Also Read: On Marka-e-Haq Day, forces signal firm resolve “Pakistan will continue its moral, political and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri people,” he said. Terming India’s attempt to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty as “water aggression”, he said water was a matter of life for millions of Pakistanis. Turning to cross-border terrorism from Afghanistan, he said Kabul must ensure its territory was not used for terrorism against Pakistan or other countries in the region. He said terrorism backed by external support must be eliminated for lasting peace in the region. The president said Pakistan was emerging as a symbol of balance and stability in the region due to the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and CDF Munir. He added that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution of the Iran–US conflict had been widely appreciated at the global level. “Pakistan’s nation and armed forces are fully prepared to face every challenge and defend the homeland,” President Zardari said. The military leadership also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty, saying the armed forces remained fully prepared to confront all internal and external challenges, calling Marka-e-Haq a defining milestone in the country’s journey. In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), CDF Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Ashraf and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sidhu extended “heartfelt congratulations to the nation and all ranks of the armed forces”. “The day stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of courage, professionalism, and unity,” said the statement, adding that the armed forces stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Pakistan and reaffirmed their “unbreakable bond with the nation they proudly serve”. The ISPR said ceremonies were being held across the country to commemorate the occasion and honour the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans, with floral wreaths being laid at memorials and prayers offered for the departed. “Marka-e-Haq has become a defining landmark in the nation’s journey, reflecting national resolve, military excellence, and strategic maturity,” the statement said. “This success not only bolstered national confidence but also established Pakistan as a responsible regional stabiliser, possessing formidable military capabilities,” it added. The military’s media wing said Pakistan’s “measured and resolute response” during Marka-e-Haq had exposed “adversarial conspiracies, false flag narratives and disinformation campaigns”. “Marka-e-Haq has become a defining landmark in the nation’s journey, reflecting national resolve, military excellence, and strategic maturity,” the statement said, adding that the success not only bolstered national confidence but also established Pakistan as a responsible regional stabiliser possessing formidable military capabilities. “Despite facing conventional and hybrid challenges, including proxy terrorism, the armed forces demonstrated superior operational competence across land, air, sea, cyber, and information domains,” the statement said. It added that Pakistan had further enhanced its defensive capabilities and reinforced “full-spectrum deterrence despite resource asymmetries”. “With the unwavering support of a resilient and united nation, the armed forces remain capable, vigilant, and fully prepared to confront all internal and external challenges, ensuring the security, stability and territorial integrity of Pakistan,” the statement concluded. Pahalgam attack and Marka-e-Haq On April 22, 2025, escalation between Pakistan and India began when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan categorically rejected the Indian blame. In response, India undertook a series of hostile actions the next day, on April 23, 2025, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the shutdown of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other's embassies. Tensions further escalated in the early hours of May 7, 2025, when missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. In a swift military response, Pakistan’s armed forces shot down Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. The confrontation intensified again in the early hours of May 10, 2025, when India targeted several Pakistani airbases with missile strikes. In retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, damaging Indian military installations, including missile storage sites, airbases, and other strategic targets. On May 10, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached following intense overnight diplomatic efforts. Minutes later, the agreement was confirmed separately by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the Indian foreign secretary.

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Violence against women rattles MPs

Senators on Friday expressed deep concern over the rising incidence of violent crimes against women, demanding tougher enforcement and improved convictions after the brutal killing of a woman in Sindh, allegedly in the name of 'honour', triggered outrage in the upper house. The debate was sparked by the killing of Rubina Chandio in Sindh's Tando Masti as lawmakers condemned a persistent culture of impunity surrounding gender-based violence. Presiding over the session, PPP Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman said the conviction rate in such cases stood at only five per cent, adding that it was an alarming reflection of systemic failure. The issue was raised by Balochistan Senator Naseema Ehsan, who drew attention to the circumstances surrounding Chandio's killing. "Rubina Chandio was killed in Sindh. She was given neither a funeral nor a shroud," Ehsan told the Senate, adding that the woman was shot in front of a crowd and the case came to light after videos of the incident circulated on social media. "The culprits involved in this brutal murder should also be hanged publicly," she said. Calling the situation "deeply distressing and unacceptable", Rehman said Pakistan was witnessing a "dangerous surge in honour killings, rape, and other forms of gender-based violence". "The surge in these cases is deeply concerning. We cannot allow such brutality to become normalised," she said. She said the reported five per cent conviction rate was "an extremely alarming state of affairs". "When justice is delivered sporadically, it reflects a systemic failure," she said, adding that while the legislative framework existed, "what is missing is implementation with resolve and consistency". Rehman also pushed back against the assumption that such crimes were confined to impoverished or remote communities. "These crimes also occur within influential households. Wealth, status, and education do not erase patriarchal thinking - often, they provide stronger networks of silence and protection," she said. Urging sustained institutional oversight, she said such cases must be "continuously and rigorously taken up by the Senate Human Rights Committee". "True deterrence will only come when a few perpetrators are made unquestionable examples," she added. Acting in her capacity as presiding officer, Rehman referred the Rubina Chandio case to the Senate Human Rights Committee for immediate review. Responding to the debate, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry assured lawmakers of the government's support in pursuing accountability.

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Security forces kill 5 terrorists in Tank, Dera Ismail Khan IBOs: ISPR

Security forces killed five terrorists belonging to the "Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij” in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBO) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing said on Friday. The state uses the term Fitna al-Khawarij for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations were conducted between Wednesday and Thursday, The first was carried out in the Tank district on the reported presence of terrorists. “During conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and after intense exchange of fire, four khwarij, belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij, were sent to hell,” the statement said. Read: 22 terrorists killed in Khyber IBO The other IBO was conducted in the Dera Ismail Khan district where one terrorist was killed in the ensuing fire exchange. The ISPR added that weapons and ammunition were also recovered, adding that the slain terrorists were actively involved in numerous militant activities in the area. “Sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other kharji found in the area, as relentless counter terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” it concluded. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security forces for the successful operations. President Zardari appreciated the professional capabilities of the security forces in eliminating the five terrorists. “Operations against the scourge of terrorism must continue until its complete eradication from the country,” the president was quoted as saying, adding that successful actions against "India-backed terrorist elements" reflected the nation’s resolve. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Shehbaz said the security forces were achieving major successes in the fight against terrorism. Also Read: 22 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in K-P, military says “The entire nation stands with the Pakistan Armed Forces in this war against terrorism,” the prime minister said. He added that the nation was united against terrorism and would not rest until its complete eradication from the country. وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کا ضلع ٹانک اور ضلع ڈیرہ اسماعیل خان میں بھارتی حمایت یافتہ فتنہ الخوارج کے خلاف کامیاب کارروائیوں پر سیکیورٹی فورسز کو خراجِ تحسین "عزمِ استحکام کے وژن کے تحت سیکیورٹی فورسز دہشت گردی کے خلاف بڑی کامیابیاں حاصل کر رہی ہیں۔ پوری قوم دہشت گردی کے خلاف… pic.twitter.com/v1XxsmaPdl — Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) May 8, 2026 Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi similarly praised the security forces. وفاقی وزیر داخلہ محسن نقوی کی خیبرپختونخوا میں فتنہ الخوارج کے دہشتگردوں کے خلاف 2 کامیاب کارروائیوں پر سکیورٹی فورسز کی ستائش وزیرداخلہ محسن نقوی نے 5 دہشتگردوں کو جہنم واصل کرنے پر سکیورٹی فورسز کی پیشہ وارانہ صلاحیتوں کو سراہا — Ministry of Interior GoP (@MOIofficialGoP) May 8, 2026 "The nation regards the successes of Pakistan's brave security forces with eyes full of appreciation. Operations will continue until the last Indian-sponsored terrorist and facilitator is eliminated," he said. سکیورٹی فورسز خیبر پختونخوا میں کامیاب آپریشنز کے ذریعے بھارتی سپانسرڈ دہشتگردوں کا صفایا کر رہی ہیں۔ پاکستان کی بہادر سکیورٹی فورسز کی کامیابیوں کو قوم قدر کی نگاہ سے دیکھتی ہے۔ آخری بھارتی سپانسرڈ دہشتگرد اور سہولت کار کے خاتمے تک آپریشنز جاری رہیں گے۔ محسن نقوی — Ministry of Interior GoP (@MOIofficialGoP) May 8, 2026  

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Balochistan Assembly approves congratulatory resolution on Marka-e-Haq's first anniversary

The Balochistan Assembly on Friday unanimously approved a congratulatory resolution commemorating the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, with lawmakers paying tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces for their role in defending the country and countering external threats. The resolution, moved by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, received support from both treasury and opposition members during the assembly session. Legislators described the armed forces as a symbol of national strength and praised their sacrifices for ensuring the security and sovereignty of Pakistan. Addressing the house, CM Bugti said the country’s armed forces had demonstrated professionalism and determination in responding to Indian hostility and terrorism. He stated that Pakistan had delivered a clear message that any attempt to undermine the country’s peace and stability would be met with a strong response. He said the nation remained proud of the courage and dedication shown by soldiers and security personnel who continued to protect the motherland under difficult circumstances. Several lawmakers participated in the discussion, including Planning and Development Minister Mir Zahoor Buledi, PPP Parliamentary Leader Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani, Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, and members from opposition benches. بلوچستان سینٹر آف ایکسیلینس حکومت بلوچستان کے زیر اہتمام “معرکہ حق” کے عنوان سے ایک اہم تقریب کا انعقاد کیا گیا، جس میں صوبائی وزیر پلاننگ اینڈ ڈویلپمنٹ میر ظہور احمد بلیدی، معاونِ خصوصی برائے داخلہ بلوچستان بابر خان یوسفزئی، سول سوسائٹی کے نمائندگان، طلباء و طالبات اور مختلف… pic.twitter.com/90BuLIBypn — Babar Yousafzai (@BabarYousafzai_) May 7, 2026 Read More: 'No one can harm Pakistan; we are ready to respond to any aggression': DG ISPR on Marka-e-Haq anniversary Speakers highlighted the importance of national unity and stressed that the people of Pakistan stood shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces. They said the completion of one year of Marka-e-Haq reflected the country’s resilience and collective resolve against threats to national security. Members also acknowledged the sacrifices made by security forces in maintaining peace, particularly in sensitive regions, and reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at stability and development in Balochistan and across the country. The session concluded with lawmakers congratulating the nation on the anniversary and expressing solidarity with the armed forces for their continued services and sacrifices. Marka-e-Haq On April 22, 2025, escalation between Pakistan and India began when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan categorically rejected the Indian blame. In response, India undertook a series of hostile actions the next day, on April 23, 2025, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the shutdown of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other's embassies. Tensions further escalated in the early hours of May 7, 2025, when missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. In a swift military response, Pakistan’s armed forces shot down Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. The confrontation intensified again in the early hours of May 10, 2025, when India targeted several Pakistani airbases with missile strikes. In retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, damaging Indian military installations, including missile storage sites, airbases, and other strategic targets. On May 10, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached following intense overnight diplomatic efforts. Minutes later, the agreement was confirmed separately by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the Indian foreign secretary.

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