By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis across the nation observed a solemn and patriotic “Day of Gratitude” on Friday to honor the unity, courage, and resilience shown by the country's armed forces and citizens in the wake of this month’s Indian strikes and the subsequent retaliatory response by Pakistan.

The day began with special prayers at mosques nationwide, where worshippers offered prayers  for the country’s safety and prayed for continued peace and prosperity. The recitation of the Holy Quran echoed from homes and mosques alike, setting a spiritual tone for the day.

In a symbolic show of strength and reverence, a 31-gun salute was held in the federal capital Islamabad following the Fajr prayer, while 21-gun salutes rang out in each of the four provincial capitals—Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta. The booming of guns served as a tribute to the bravery of the nation’s defenders and the resilience of its people.

This national day of observance comes after a period of heightened tensions earlier this month when India launched strikes across the border. Pakistan's armed forces responded with swift precision, engaging in a series of missile exchanges that analysts described as a short but intense military encounter. Pakistan’s counter-response, backed by strategic defense capabilities and public solidarity, was widely viewed domestically as a successful defense of sovereignty and a deterrent to further aggression.

The government declared May 16 as "Yume Tashakur" and events organized across the country. Schools, universities, and public institutions held  flag-raising ceremonies, while television and radio stations broadcasted special programs, documentaries, and patriotic songs commemorating the resolve of the nation.

Prime Minister Shahebaz Sharif issued a statement , saying, “Today, we bow our heads in gratitude to the Almighty and salute the brave sons and daughters of our soil who stood tall in the face of aggression. This unity has shown the world that Pakistan will always defend its dignity and sovereignty.”

Public gatherings, rallies, and displays of the national flag have been reported in major cities, with citizens of all walks of life participating in the national tribute. Social media platforms were also flooded with messages of patriotism and appreciation under trending hashtags such as #DayOfGratitude and #PakistanZindabad.

While the situation on the border has since stabilized, both nations remain under international scrutiny, with calls from the global community urging restraint and dialogue. Despite the tensions, today’s observance in Pakistan serves as a reflection of national pride and collective resolve in the face of adversity.