ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday claimed that the Pakistan Air Force shot down six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft, in a decisive response to “misadventure” by India.
Speaking at Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) Minhas Airbase in Kamra, PM Sharif lauded the Pakistan armed forces for their outstanding performance, stating that the country’s pride has soared to new heights due to their valour.
Tension between India and Pakistan escalated after the April 22 attack in the Pahalgam area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). India swiftly blamed Pakistan without presenting any credible evidence.
Pakistan condemned the attack and strongly denied the Indian allegations as baseless. Pakistan also offered a neutral and transparent international investigation into the incident. However, New Delhi did not respond to Pakistan’s offer and continued with its aggressive posture.
On the night of May 6-7, India launched a series of air strikes on Pakistan, resulting in civilian casualties. Pakistan responded firmly and downed six Indian fighter jets and destroyed a brigade headquarters and several military posts. Both sides then exchanged missiles, which stretched over the week.
On May 10, when tensions between the two countries peaked, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached between India and Pakistan. According to the government, 40 civilians — including 7 women and 15 children — lost their lives in the Indian aggression, and 121 others sustained injuries.
PM Sharif warns India of befitting response
Speaking at the airbase, Pakistan’s prime minister delivered a strong message to India, warning, “If you look at us with malicious intent, we will crush you underfoot.”
He termed the triumph as the most glorious victory in Pakistan’s history, asserting that it has transformed perceptions of the nation both regionally and globally.
“The enemy has been taught a lesson it will not forget,” he added.
The prime minister hailed Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir for leading from the front in a historic triumph against India, extending congratulations to him, the Air Chief, and the Naval Chief.
PM Sharif said that May 10 resonated with Pakistan’s technical prowess across the globe, a day that will be etched in history as a testament to the country’s success for generations.
He said that Pakistan compelled India to its knees in less than 10 hours, a feat that has reshaped global perceptions.
“Our brave soldiers have transformed the world’s thinking,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s robust response has shifted the balance of power.
PM Sharif lauded the Air Chief’s role and asserted that the nation will remember it in golden letters, while noting the unity of 240 million Pakistanis who prayed for the armed forces’ success.
The prime minister said that the downing of Indian Rafale jets “will be remembered by Modi until Judgment Day.”
He praised the relentless efforts of the troops, supported by their parents’ prayers, who risked their lives to defend the nation.
“In this conflict, we maintained patience and restraint, setting us apart.
