KARACHI: Defence and Martyrs Day is being commemorated today in Pakistan, honoring the nation’s martyrs and Ghazis and reaffirming the country’s resolve to defend its territory against all threats. The day marks the anniversary of the 1965 conflict, when Indian forces crossed the international border at night to attack Pakistan, but their objectives were thwarted by the nation’s defense forces.

According to Radio Pakistan, the day began with a thirty-one gun salute in the Federal Capital, followed by a twenty-one gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were conducted after Fajr in mosques nationwide for the country’s progress, prosperity, and the independence of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, Radio Pakistan is airing special programming to honor the defenders of the country.

The day was also marked by a change of guard ceremony at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi. The event featured a contingent of 72 cadets and eight female cadets from the Pakistan Air Force Academy, Asghar Khan, who assumed guard duties at the mausoleum. Air Vice Marshal Hassan Faisal, the air officer commanding the Pakistan Air Force Academy, Asghar Khan, served as the chief guest for the ceremony.