ISLAMABAD (AP) — On Thursday, Pakistan’s armed forces issued a stern warning that they would deliver a forceful response to any aggression as the nation commemorated one year since a four-day military confrontation with India that nearly pushed the two nuclear powers toward full-scale warfare before American diplomatic intervention secured a ceasefire.
Military officials declared that any “hostile design” targeting Pakistan would face retaliation with “greater strength, precision and resolve” than India experienced during the May 2025 confrontation, which Pakistani leadership dubbed “Marka-e-Haq,” meaning “Battle of Truth.”
The two nations engaged in reciprocal military strikes after gunmen attacked the Indian-controlled section of the contested Himalayan territory of Kashmir, resulting in 26 deaths, primarily Hindu visitors. Indian officials accused Pakistan-supported extremists of orchestrating the attack, charges that Pakistani leadership rejected while demanding an impartial inquiry.
On May 7, India conducted military operations within Pakistani territory, prompting Pakistan to launch counterstrikes involving unmanned aircraft penetration, rocket attacks and heavy weapons fire. Casualties mounted on both sides over several days until May 10, when American diplomatic efforts secured a cessation of hostilities.
Pakistani military leaders asserted they destroyed no fewer than seven Indian warplanes, including a French-manufactured Rafale combat aircraft. Indian authorities confirmed some military losses but declined to release specifics.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has frequently highlighted his role in preventing the escalation into broader warfare.
The relationship between Pakistan and India remains tense, with two of their three previous wars centered on the Kashmir territory, which both nations claim completely.
