Latest news with #OperationBunyan-al-Marsoos
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Economic stability: FPCCI emphasises critical need for renewed focus
LAHORE: President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, emphasized the critical need for renewed focus on economic stability during Pakistan's 78th Independence Day celebrations. Speaking at a ceremony organized by the FPCCI in Lahore on Thursday, Sheikh declared that true freedom is achievable only through national prosperity. 'We pledge today to make sound decisions that will drive Pakistan toward sustainable economic growth,' he stated, underscoring the business community's vital role in shaping the country's future. The event featured a flag-hoisting ceremony and tree planting, symbolizing national pride and commitment to progress. Distinguished attendees included FPCCI Regional Chairman Zain Iftikhar Chaudhry, Patron-in-Chief UBG SM Tanveer, Brigadier Nadir Mir (r), and Vice Presidents Zaki Ijaz and Tariq Mahmood Jadoon. President Sheikh extended congratulations to the nation, highlighting the special significance of this year's celebrations following the historic success of Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos. He paid tribute to Pakistan's armed forces, expressing the business community's profound gratitude for their sacrifices and valour. Sheikh further noted that Pakistan's effective diplomacy under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir had successfully countered India's false narratives while enhancing Pakistan's global image internationally. He specifically credited Field Marshal Munir's leadership for the decisive victory against national adversaries. Addressing future development, Sheikh stressed the importance of youth empowerment, pointing out that 65% of Pakistan's population is under 30 years old – a demographic he described as a tremendous opportunity. He called for increased investment in youth and women to harness their potential for building a stronger Pakistan. 'Pakistan is our identity, and our hearts beat with it,' Sheikh affirmed, reinforcing the collective resolve to uphold national sovereignty. The ceremony concluded with participants unanimously reaffirming their commitment to a progressive and resilient Pakistan. In celebration of Pakistan's 78th Independence Day, a flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Head Office of Sui Northern Gas in Lahore. The ceremony was graced by Managing Director Sui Northern Gas, Amer Tufail, as the chief guest. In his address, the Managing Director paid tribute to the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal in securing Pakistan's independence. He also lauded the heroic sacrifices and victories of the Pakistan Armed Forces. Tufail urged employees to work with unity and dedication for the progress of the country and the company. Later, the Managing Director hoisted the national flag and planted a sapling to mark the occasion. Senior management and employees of the company also attended the ceremony in large numbers. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry celebrated Pakistan's Independence Day with a grand ceremony featuring a flag hoisting and cake cutting. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the national anthem. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman, Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry, former President Muhammad Ali Mian, former Vice President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol and Executive Committee members jointly hoisted the national flag. A large number of members of the business community were also present at the occasion. Special prayers were offered for the security, progress and prosperity of Pakistan, while the atmosphere echoed with chants of 'Pakistan Zindabad' and 'Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad'. In his address, LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad said that Independence Day is not just a celebration, but a reminder of the sacrifices, unity and hard work of our forefathers who struggled for this homeland. He stressed that Pakistan's development requires collective efforts from all segments of society. LCCI Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman said that the true spirit of independence lies in fulfilling national responsibilities and taking concrete measures to strengthen the economy. Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry remarked that the business community is playing a vital role in fortifying Pakistan's industrial and trade structure. Former President Muhammad Ali Mian stressed the need for unity and harmony to send a strong message to the world that Pakistan is a stable and peaceful country. Former Vice President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol underscored the importance of business-friendly policies and industrial growth for economic progress. They said that Independence Day is an opportunity to renew the pledge to put Pakistan on the path of growth and prosperity. The ceremony concluded with the cutting of a special Independence Day cake, where participants exchanged greetings and waved the national flag, expressed love and commitment to the homeland. President Mian Abuzar Shad added that true independence is economic prosperity, which can be achieved through national unity, sound government policies, and the promotion of investment. NESPAK also celebrated the 78th Independence Day by arranging a simple but impressive ceremony at NESPAK House, Lahore here on August 14, 2025. The ceremony was started with recitation from the Holy Quran and prayers were made for the national unity and progress of the country. On this occasion, Zargham Eshaq Khan, Managing Director NESPAK, hoisted the national flag amid Independence Day drill performed by NESPAK security guards and national anthem was played. Speaking on the occasion, MD NESPAK expressed one's love for the country and its importance. In the end, MD NESPAK cut a cake along with senior officials to mark the celebration. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Pakistan's terror links exposed again: Hafiz Saeed's son claims Pakistan will protect LeT chief, never hand him over to India
In a public event attended by Pakistan state officials and terror commanders, Hafiz Talha Saeed , son of UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, said that Pakistan will never hand over his father to India. He also praised Pakistan Army's Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos and called for jihad. The event was held on May 28 in Kasur, Punjab, Pakistan. Gathering attended by Punjab Assembly speaker and terror accused Talha Saeed made the comments while addressing a gathering held to mark Youm-e-Takbir, the anniversary of Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests. The event took place in the presence of Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Saifullah Kasuri—also known as Khalid—and state security personnel. Posters of Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir were also visible at the event. — erbmjha (@erbmjha) In his speech, Talha said, 'My dear brothers, today's May 28, came with Bunyan-al-Marsoos.' Referring to the Quran, he added, 'Truly Allah loves those who fight in his cause in battle array, as if they were a solid cemented structure.' The phrase "Bunyan Marsoos" means 'a structure made of lead.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo He thanked the Punjab Speaker and others for attending the event, stating, 'I'm thankful to Malik Ahmad Khan, speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan and Saifullah Khalid for their presence here on stage. I also salute the people of Pakistan on behalf of my father, Hafiz Saeed . Allah loves those who do jihad. Allah's blessings and favours are with those who do jihad in his name.' Public declaration of state protection Talha Saeed also said he was confident that Pakistan would never extradite his father, who is wanted in India for multiple terror cases including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. According to a CNN-News18 report, he claimed that Hafiz Saeed is under state protection and denied any recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it 'drama.' Live Events Reaction to use of Quranic verse for military operations Earlier, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticised Pakistan's use of Quranic references to name military operations. He said, 'Pakistan has named their new attack 'Bunyan-al-Marsoos'. This is from a verse in the Quran Sharif in which Allah says that if you love Allah, then stand like a solid wall. But the Pakistan Army and establishment are such liars. In the same verse before, Allah says Why do you say such things which you don't do?' He added, 'They are such liars that they don't want to grasp the whole purpose of the Quran. Did they forget to stand like a wall when they were firing at Bengali Muslims in East Pakistan?' Visuals and statements go viral Images from the event showing Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan seated in the front row alongside Saifullah Kasuri have been widely shared on social media. The video of Talha Saeed's speech and his open endorsement of jihad, under the presence of political and military symbols, has raised concerns about continued terror support from Pakistan's establishment.
The Print
21-05-2025
- Politics
- The Print
Srinagar airbase is vulnerable to Pakistan attack. These are ways to secure it
Every single Army Chief in Pakistan since General Zia-ul-Haq, except probably General Jehangir Karamat, has espoused similar views. The centrality of Kashmir and the critical importance of striking Indian military assets at the Srinagar airfield has been a consistent feature in Pakistan's war plans. He presented the contest with India in religious terms by drawing a sharp distinction between Muslims and Hindus. These words might have surprised some, but to Pakistan watchers, this was nothing new. On 16 April 2025, the chief of Pakistan Army, General Asim Munir, while addressing the Pakistani diaspora, stated that Kashmir is Pakistan's jugular vein. As per him, Kashmir has been and would always remain the core issue for the Pakistani military. Historical context In 1947, India was able to retain control over the Srinagar airfield by the skin of its teeth. Thanks to the gallant efforts by the 1 Sikh under the able command of Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai and the Dakotas from No. 12 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, India was able to beat back the marauding hordes of Pakistani militia, who had advanced to within 30 miles of the airfield. Subsequently, in the wars of 1965 and 1971, Srinagar received frequent visits from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Notably, IAF's sole Param Vir Chakra was awarded to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon for his intrepid bravery in air action over Srinagar on 14 December 1971. More recently, as part of Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos, Pakistan launched air attacks on Srinagar airfield on 10 May 2025. The attacks involved drones, missiles, and fighter jets. It was a very determined attack, and the PAF was willing to take greater risks. However, despite these attacks, the Srinagar airfield remained operational and IAF's military operations continued unabated. These attacks highlighted Pakistan's intent to neutralise Srinagar's operational capacity, underscoring the need for robust defence strategies in the face of evolving threats. Also read: Pakistan can't test India's strategic patience anymore. The doctrine has flipped Emerging threats The air operations during India's Operation Sindoor, which started on 7 May, and Pakistan's retaliatory Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos (10 May) revealed a new paradigm in aerial warfare. Pakistan deployed advanced technologies, including swarm drones, kamikaze drones with anti-radiation missiles (ARM) capabilities, long-range standoff weapons effective beyond 100 km, and beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles with ranges exceeding 200 km. These systems pose a multifaceted threat to Srinagar Airfield, complicating India's ability to maintain air control. Geographically, Srinagar's proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) exacerbates its vulnerability. The LoC sectors at Uri, Baramulla, and Tangdhar are only 60–70 km away, while the IB at Akhnoor is 120 km. Pakistan's Qadri Airbase in Skardu, at 160 km from Srinagar, can house advanced PAF fighters like the J-10C, F-16, and JF-17. Closer bases at Kotli and Rawalakot, approximately 100 km away, can support helicopters and drone operations. In a broader conflict, PAF could deploy assets from distant bases, as far as PAF Base Masroor in Karachi, leveraging AAR (air-to-air refueling) and long-range precision weapons to target Srinagar. The PAF's modernised inventory, including data-linked fighters and Saab 2000 Erieye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) systems, enhances its operational reach. A Combat Air Patrol (CAP) operating 100–150 km from Srinagar, within Pakistani airspace, could engage IAF fighters as they take off, particularly as they clear the crest line of surrounding terrain. That's when they'd be most vulnerable. Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, with ranges exceeding 200 km, enable PAF to neutralise airborne threats before they gain altitude or can manoeuvre effectively to get into an advantageous position. Additionally, swarm drones and kamikaze drones with anti-radiation missiles (ARM) features can target radar and air defence systems, while surface-launched missiles and forward-deployed artillery threaten the airfield's infrastructure. A saturation strike, combining these elements, could disable the runway or critical facilities for hours, disrupting IAF operations at a critical juncture. The 10 May 10 attack, while symbolic, was limited in scale. Future PAF operations, potentially coordinated with ground manoeuvres from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) or a thrust into the Akhnoor bulge, could involve a larger, more sustained assault. Such a scenario would test India's defensive capabilities, particularly if Pakistan employs a combination of pre-emptive strikes and persistent aerial threats to overwhelm Srinagar's defences. Also read: India's military revival hinges on overestimating Pakistan Army Defending Srinagar Defending Srinagar Airfield against these emerging threats requires addressing a complex array of challenges: slow-moving drones, suicide drones, ARMs, surface-to-air missiles, long-range artillery, and air-launched precision weapons. The airfield's proximity to hostile bases and enemy's airspace makes it vulnerable to standoff attacks, which necessitate a re-evaluation of traditional air defence strategies. A saturation strike could temporarily disable the runway, grounding IAF fighters, while a BVR-armed PAF CAP loitering within kill ranges could neutralise aircraft attempting to take off. Both scenarios undermine India's ability to maintain air superiority over Srinagar, a cornerstone of our air strategy. India's current air defence posture in this area relies on maintaining 'guns tight' protocols, where surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and air defence weapons engage only after clearance to avoid fratricide. This cautious approach, while necessary to prevent blue-on-blue (friendly fire) incidents, limits the responsiveness of ground-based defences against fast-evolving threats like swarm drones or low-flying kamikaze drones. Moreover, deploying IAF fighters from Srinagar itself is increasingly precarious, as PAF's AEW&C and BVR capabilities can detect and engage aircraft shortly after take-off. Pakistan's recent attack, though unsuccessful in causing significant damage, exposed vulnerabilities that could be exploited in a larger-scale operation. Pakistan's willingness to take greater risks, as demonstrated in Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos, suggests that future attacks may prioritise saturation and coordination to overwhelm defences. The IAF cannot afford to assume that Srinagar's operational resilience will hold against a more determined assault, particularly in the context of a theatre-wide conflict. It is a fact that, based on our own capabilities, we can create similar problems for the other side. However, this analysis focuses solely on the challenges of defending Srinagar and the Kashmir valley in general. Strength versus vulnerability To counter these threats, India could leverage its strengths against Pakistan's vulnerabilities by adopting an air denial strategy over the traditional pursuit of air superiority. India's ground-based air defence infrastructure, bolstered by the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) and Akashteer for detection, and systems like the S-400, Barak-8 and Akash SAM for engagement, provides a formidable foundation. The S-400, with a detection range of 600 km and effective kill range of up to 400 km, can engage targets well beyond the IB/ LoC, deep into Pakistan's airspace. The medium/short range SAMs and air defence guns could provide additional layers of protection. By shifting to a 'guns free' default mode, instead of 'guns tight', India could create a no-fly zone extending 400 km from Srinagar, making it prohibitively risky for PAF aircraft to operate, even within their own airspace. This air denial strategy would involve keeping IAF fighters grounded at dispersed locations within Srinagar airfield, housed in hardened aircraft shelters (HAS), or relocating them to nearby bases. When needed, IAF fighters equipped with long-range BVR missiles, supported by airborne warning and control systems (AWACS), could operate from other bases to provide local air superiority over Srinagar without exposing themselves to a direct attack on the ground. This approach maximises the freedom of engagement for ground-based defences, allowing SAMs and guns to freely engage any aerial threat within range, regardless of the threat's origin. The air denial strategy exploits Pakistan's reliance on airborne platforms to target Srinagar by making them extremely vulnerable to formidable air defence architecture on ground. This would deter PAF, and should they wish to press home the attack, they would have to expend significant additional resources to penetrate the airspace. The psychological and operational impact of such a strategy could disrupt PAF's planning, as the risk of heavy losses outweighs potential gains. For an Air Force, led by fighter pilots, that worships at the altar of air superiority, this would be a bitter pill to swallow. Having been one myself, I understand that we consider gaining and maintaining control of the air as the primary airpower role. For IAF, air superiority is primus inter pares. The air denial strategy could seem like a defensive move. Historical precedent The air denial strategy draws inspiration from the 1973 Yom Kippur War, where Egyptian forces established a dense air defence network along the Suez Canal, denying the Israeli Air Force operational freedom. While Israel eventually regained air superiority, it did so at a significant cost in blood and treasure despite enjoying a significant technological advantage over Egypt. Pakistan, lacking a similar edge over India's advanced air defence systems, faces a steeper challenge. India's S-400, Akashteer, and IACCS provide a robust detection and engagement capability, making an air denial strategy viable. For the IAF, steeped in a culture that prioritises air superiority, adopting air denial may seem counterintuitive. Air superiority, often considered the primary role of airpower, ensures control of the skies for offensive and defensive operations. However, in Srinagar's unique context—geographically constrained, close to hostile bases, and facing advanced threats—air denial offers a pragmatic alternative. By neutralising PAF's ability to operate anywhere near Srinagar, India can maintain operational continuity at the airfield, without relying on fighter aircraft to man the operational readiness platform (ORP) or being airborne as part of an around-the-clock CAP from Srinagar. Group Captain Ajay Ahlawat (Retd) is a former IAF fighter pilot. He tweets @Ahlawat2012. Views are personal. (Edited by Ratan Priya)
Business Recorder
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Punjab Assembly passes resolution marking country's victory
LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly on Monday unanimously approved a resolution marking the defeat of Indian aggression and Pakistan's triumph. The resolution, presented by Deputy Speaker Malik Zahir Iqbal Channar, congratulated the nation on the success of Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos against India. The representative house of the Punjab Assembly extends its congratulations to the entire nation, particularly the Pakistan Armed Forces, for the historic success of Bunyan-al-Marsoos. This remarkable achievement by Pakistan's military crushed the enemy's arrogance and filled the nation with pride. On the night between May 6 and 7, 2025, India launched a cowardly attack on Pakistan under Operation Sandoor, using the false flag operation in Pahlgam on April 22, 2025, as a pretext. The aggression targeted civilian areas in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, attacking mosques, seminaries, and martyring innocent civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. Additionally, India struck Pakistan's water infrastructure, endangering not only regional but global peace. Following the Pahlgam incident, India unilaterally suspended the Indus Waters Treaty on April 23. This treaty is a bilateral agreement, and its unilateral termination violates international law. The waters of the Indus belong to 250 million Pakistanis, and their rights cannot be revoked. The enemy did not anticipate a response that would leave it humiliated before the international community, forced to lick its wounds in defeat. On the morning of May 10, Pakistan Armed Forces delivered a crushing blow through Bunyan-al-Marsoos, fulfilling their promise to the nation. Pakistan's military and political leadership demonstrated exceptional strategy, and the National Security Committee granted full authority to the armed forces to respond to Indian aggression. The forces not only met but exceeded the nation's expectations, achieving a glorious victory. Pakistan's brave forces not only downed enemy aircraft but also destroyed multiple military bases. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
'Op victory' celebrated at Wagah
Jubilant crowds at Lahore's Wagah Border hail the armed forces with chants and petals, celebrating Pakistan's resounding triumph in Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos, as India quietly skipped the traditional ceremony. PHOTO: EXPRESS Thousands of citizens gathered at the Wagah Border on Sunday to celebrate the historic and decisive victory over India, following Pakistan's retaliatory Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos in response to New Delhi's aggression. Chanting slogans of "Allahu Akbar," "Long live Pakistan Army" and "Pakistan Zindabad," the emotionally charged crowd, comprising men, women, children and the elderly, waved national flags and donned green-and-white attire in a display of patriotic unity. Despite the stadium on the Pakistani side being under construction and typically closed to the public, the turnout was overwhelming. At the conclusion of the parade, citizens showered flower petals on personnel of the Pakistan Rangers Punjab. Soldiers were welcomed with garlands and greeted with chants of "We are proud of you". Elderly women embraced and kissed their foreheads as a gesture of appreciation for their service. Maryam, a student from Lahore, shared her emotions: "We are here to celebrate a glorious victory over India. I hope this ends Modi's warmongering fever". "Our army has shown not just India, but the entire world, that we Muslims fear none but Allah. India will now think a thousand times before threatening Pakistan again," another young participant, Hamza, added. "India will never even dream of waging war with Pakistan again. Our army has taught the enemy a lesson that will be remembered in history," a woman in the crowd said while echoing the sentiment. Parade Commander Nasir, speaking to media personnel, said that since tensions began with India, the forces have been on full alert. "We've always said we fear no one but Allah". He recalled that in 2019, Pakistan returned Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan from this very border. "Today, the enemy once again witnessed our resolve." "Locals used to bring us food during the nights. Today, they're offering not just flowers, but their hearts. This love strengthens our morale," He added. Ranger soldier Ali recounted a powerful memory: "When hostilities began and India launched an initial strike, my mother called and told me: 'Don't be afraid. If you have to lay down your life for your homeland, do so without hesitation. Take a bullet on your chest, not your back. Otherwise, I won't bless you with my milk.'" "We Rangers are ready for martyrdom. We will foil every conspiracy of the enemy." In sharp contrast, the Indian side of the border was marked by silence. The stadium stood empty, and no BSF personnel conducted their usual parade. Only a quiet lowering of the Indian flag took place, a subdued image that appeared to reflect a lack of public participation and internal unease.
