Pakistan’s military has warned it would respond strongly against any attack as it marked the anniversary of last year’s four-day conflict with neighbouring India that brought the neighbouring rivals to the brink of war before a US-brokered ceasefire halted the fighting.
The military said on Thursday that any “hostile design” against Pakistan would be countered with “greater strength, precision and resolve” than what India witnessed during the May 2025 conflict, which Islamabad named “Marka-e-Haq,” or “Battle of Truth.”
Pakistan and India had exchanged tit-for-tat strikes following an attack by gunmen in the India-administered part of the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir that killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan-backed militants for the massacre without providing evidence. Islamabad denied the allegations while calling for an independent investigation.
India launched strikes inside Pakistan on May 7, triggering retaliatory attacks by Pakistan that included drone incursions, missile strikes and artillery fire. Dozens of people were killed on both sides before a ceasefire was reached on May 10 following US mediation.
Pakistan at the time said it shot down at least seven Indian military aircraft, including a French-made Rafale fighter jet. India acknowledged suffering some losses but did not provide details.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly taken credit for helping avert a wider war.
Pakistan and India have long had strained relations and have fought two of their three wars over Kashmir, which is claimed by both in its entirety.
