Victory in Marka-i-Haq ‘boosted Pakistan’s global standing’

As Pakistan positions itself at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions in the Middle East, senior officials on Tuesday said the country had strengthened its global standing following last year’s confrontation with India.

At separate events marking the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Atta Tarar credited the armed forces — backed by public support — with safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Speaking to diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar said Pakistan’s response to what he described as unprovoked Indian aggression had reinforced its adherence to sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence in line with the UN Charter. He added that regional peace could not be undermined by divisive politics.

Dar said last year’s developments had pushed the region close to crisis, accusing India of pursuing a pattern of escalation through unverified allegations and inflammatory rhetoric.

He also raised concerns over India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a breach of established norms and a risk to regional stability. Any move to halt or divert Pakistan’s share of water, he warned, would be treated as an act of war — a position previously outlined by the National Security Committee.

Pointing to what he termed irregular river flows, particularly in the Chenab River and Jhelum River, Dar alleged that India was not fulfilling its treaty obligations.

He acknowledged the role of Donald Trump in facilitating a ceasefire and appreciated support from countries including Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, saying Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic engagement — including efforts aligned with UN resolutions on Gaza — reflected its commitment to multilateral cooperation.

According to Dar, Pakistan had reached out to more than 120 foreign ministers and international leaders to build consensus for de-escalation between Washington and Tehran, while also encouraging dialogue among key stakeholders. He said these efforts were aimed at securing mutually beneficial outcomes, noting that prolonged conflict had disrupted global economic stability, energy markets and supply chains.

Separately, addressing the launch of The Battle of Truth — a book and documentary recounting the events of May 2025 — Khawaja Asif said Pakistan had emerged stronger and more stable, positioning itself as a force for regional peace.

He praised the military’s swift response to Indian actions and said any future aggression would be met with an even stronger reaction. Describing India’s posture as a challenge to regional peace, he added that Pakistan remained prepared to counter any form of proxy conflict.

The defence minister also pointed to Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to global peace through its role in UN peacekeeping missions.

At the same event, organised by Inter-Services Public Relations and the information ministry, Atta Tarar said Pakistan’s stance had gained wider international traction, arguing that the global community had rejected India’s narrative due to credibility concerns.