Sialkot – Federal Minister for Defence, Khawaja Asif, asserted on Sunday that the attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ) during the violent protests on May 9, sparked by the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, was part of India’s anti-Pakistan agenda.
Addressing a rally organized by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Sialkot to demonstrate solidarity with the armed forces, Asif emphasized that Pakistan’s existence was targeted on May 9, driven solely by a person’s quest for power, referring to Imran Khan.
Expressing regret, he highlighted the pain felt by the families and heirs of the martyrs when a group of vandals attacked sacred monuments. Asif voiced his doubts about the intentions of those who led the attacks on May 9, while clarifying that he did not doubt anyone’s loyalty.
Earlier, the minister visited the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (martyrs’ monument) in Chawinda, where he paid homage to the martyrs by laying a floral wreath on their graves and offering prayers.
Asif praised the bravery of the martyrs in defending the country, emphasizing their significant role in defeating the Indian army.
Without directly naming anyone, he criticized a political leader for targeting the armed forces in the current situation and warned against involving external elements in such actions. Asif urged the people to genuinely express their love and support for the army while rejecting any negative perceptions associated with the events of May 9.
Highlighting the steadfastness of the Pakistan Army, he commended their unwavering commitment to the nation’s security, with brave soldiers sacrificing their lives for the country.
Asif underscored the importance of solidarity to honor the sacrifices of the Pakistani forces and called for national unity. He also cautioned that certain individuals aimed to regain power.
The rally organized by the PML-N in Sialkot aimed to display unwavering support for the armed forces and reinforce national unity amidst challenges faced by the country.