Islamabad, May 28, 2025: During a program identified as Youm-e-Takbeer (Day of Greatness), Pakistan’s political and military leaders expressed unity on a message: Pakistan’s defence is untouchable, it is sacred.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), was unapologetic when commenting for statements announcing their positions in the capital city. “Defensive posturing and politics are never even a conversation. Every Pakistani has to. We are in agreement and we state again, we will never lower our sovereignty or independence,” he said.
Youm-e-Takbeer is intended to pay honour to the 1998 nuclear tests numerically the very first nuclear tests were conducted in 1998. They confirm Pakistan amongst the nuclear powers. In terms of gaining and confirming nuclear capabilities, Fazlur Rehman reminded the audience that those acts weren’t “one off” strategies, they were very much dictated by the State’s needs of the time. “That moment’s severity was the gravest predicament that Pakistan was facing as a State. The choice available to our leaders at that point was dignity, or the insecurity of the State.”
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The Primes Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced May 28th as a public holiday and honored the vision of past leaders and the dedication of scientists who made the tests possible. “It was a moment that will be remembered for the courage that was put into it, and the sacrifices that were made,” the Prime Minister said. “Pakistan’s existence and ultimately security and sovereignty is non-negotiable.”
President Asif Ali Zardari echoed that sentiment noting Pakistan’s nuclear capability is a deterrent to ultimately create peace in a volatile region. “We have a defensive programme and one designed to protect not provoke,” he said.
The military’s Inter-Services Public Relations office released a statement emphasizing its unwavering readiness to defend the country. “Youm-e-Takbeer is a testament to national resolve,” it said.
Across the country, people observed the day with events and broadcasts highlighting Pakistan’s journey toward self-reliance in defence. The role of scientists, especially Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, was remembered with respect.
Political analysts say Youm-e-Takbeer continues to remind Pakistanis that national security depends not just on weapons but on unity and vigilance.
In closing, Fazlur Rehman summed it up: “Our defence is not just in the hands of the military. It is a duty shared by every citizen. We will never compromise on it
