ISLAMABAD: In a solemn and high-profile ceremony held at the President House, Pakistan’s top military and political leaders were honoured with prestigious national awards in recognition of their contributions during the recent conflict with India, referred to by the government as Marka-e-Haq. The ceremony coincided with the observance of the 78th Independence Day, celebrated with a renewed focus on national resilience and unity.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir and Chief of Air Staff Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu were conferred the Hilal-e-Jurat, Pakistan’s second-highest military honour, by President Asif Ali Zardari. Their leadership during Operation Bunyan-Um-Marsoos — Pakistan’s swift military response to Indian airstrikes in early May — was cited as critical in neutralising the threat and asserting Pakistan’s military readiness. The operation saw Pakistan down six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, in a bold retaliatory campaign that ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
The government also recognised the diplomatic efforts led by Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and former Foreign Minister, by awarding him the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Civil). Bilawal spearheaded a diplomatic delegation that visited the United States, United Kingdom, and European countries to present Pakistan’s position and counter Indian narratives following the Pahalgam attack. His delegation included senior politicians such as Hina Rabbani Khar, Sherry Rehman, and Khurram Dastgir Khan.
In recognition of Pakistan Air Force’s exceptional performance, dozens of officers were awarded for their operational excellence. Eight PAF officers received the Sitara-e-Jurat, including Wing Commander Bilal Raza and Squadron Leader M. Osama Ishfaq. Additionally, 24 officers were granted the Sitara-e-Basalat, and 45 were honoured with the Tamgha-e-Basalat for their roles in aerial combat and support operations.
In total, the President awarded:
- 8 Sitara-e-Jurat
- 5 Tamgha-e-Jurat
- 24 Sitara-e-Basalat
- 45 Tamgha-e-Basalat
- 146 Imtiazi Asnad
- 259 COAS Commendation Cards
- 1 Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Military)
Meanwhile, veteran journalist Ansar Abbasi declined the Marka-e-Haq award, saying he had done only what was expected of him as a professional and that the honour should be attributed to the collective resolve of the nation.
The event underscored Pakistan’s civil-military unity and its response to external threats, with President Zardari emphasizing the sacrifices and courage of the armed forces and diplomats in protecting the country’s sovereignty.
