Islamabad, Pakistan – On May 9, 2023, thousands of Pakistanis engaged in widespread protests across major cities, targeting both public and private properties, with particular focus on installations associated with the nation’s military. Demonstrators, affiliated with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, protested against the arrest of their leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who faced corruption charges.
Despite Khan’s release within 48 hours, the protests highlighted a significant challenge to the military’s longstanding authority in Pakistan, an institution widely recognized as a pillar of national stability and governance. This dynamic evolved dramatically on May 11, 2025, when the public’s sentiment shifted markedly. Thousands gathered in celebration of the military’s perceived defense of the nation amid escalating tensions with India.
In the wake of a brief but intense military confrontation with India, both nations claimed successes in their military operations, marking an unprecedented peak in hostilities seen since their 1971 war. This near-war scenario fostered a notable increase in domestic support for the Pakistani military, viewed by many as a bulwark against external threats.
A recent Gallup Pakistan survey indicated that an overwhelming 96 percent of respondents believed Pakistan had triumphed in the conflict, with 82 percent rating the military’s performance as “very good.” Furthermore, 92 percent of those polled expressed an improved opinion of the military due to the events of that week.
On May 11, jubilant crowds filled the streets, waving national flags and expressing praise for military leadership, particularly General Syed Asim Munir. This collective celebration, termed “The Day of Righteous Battle,” stood in stark contrast to the earlier protests described by the government as “Black Day.”
The recent conflict was ignited following tragic attacks in Indian-administered Kashmir, where gunmen killed 26 civilians, prompting retaliatory missile strikes from India into Pakistan-administered territory. Islamabad, however, has consistently maintained that it supports Kashmiri aspirations through moral and diplomatic means without endorsing violence.
Political analysts suggest that the military’s image, long deeply entwined with the narrative of protecting national sovereignty, has seen a resurgence in approval as a result of the heightened tensions with India. Yet, the relationship between the military and the public remains complex, as historical grievances and political challenges persist.
As Pakistan navigates geopolitical conflicts, the interplay between national pride, military reverence, and domestic politics will be pivotal in shaping public sentiment. Observers now wonder whether this current surge in military endorsement will yield lasting support amid ongoing political developments and the future of leadership dynamics in the nation.
For more insights on Pakistan’s evolving political landscape, visit USA Zine.
#PoliticsNews #MiddleEastNews