Pakistan Declares May 16 as Youm e Tashakur to Honor Martyrs of Operation Benayan Marsoos

Pakistan’s government has announced May 16, 2025, as a Youm-e-Tashakur to honor the sacrifices of its people and armed forces for achieving a historic victory in the “Operation Benayan Marsoos.” Special ceremonies will be held nationwide to pay tribute to martyrs and celebrate unity.

The day will begin with Quran recitations and prayers in mosques. A 31-gun salute will echo in the federal capital, while provincial capitals will witness 21-gun salutes. Flag-hoisting ceremonies will take place in Islamabad and provincial headquarters.

At Mazar-e-Quaid (Karachi) and Mazar-e-Iqbal (Lahore), the traditional changing of the guards ceremony will be held. Flowers will be laid at martyrs’ monuments, and families of martyrs from Operation Benayan Marsoos will meet officials to honor their loved ones.

The main event will occur at Pakistan Monument, Islamabad, tonight. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend as the chief guest, alongside the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and heads of the armed forces. Leaders from all political and religious groups have also been invited to celebrate national unity.