Islamabad, April 22, 2026 — On the one-year mark of the Pahalgam incident, Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani strongly reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled position and criticised what he described as India’s escalation-driven conduct and attempts to misrepresent facts.
Gilani said Pakistan exercised maximum restraint despite grave provocations while remaining fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He emphasised that Pakistan’s response during the Pakistan–India standoff was measured, responsible and consistent with international law.
Gilani paid tribute to the professionalism and resolve of the Pakistan Armed Forces, noting that their readiness and deterrent capability have decisively safeguarded national sovereignty and neutralised hostile designs in a volatile environment.
The chairman recalled that Pakistan immediately offered a neutral and transparent investigation into the Pahalgam incident, stressing that only a credible, evidence-based inquiry can establish facts and prevent further escalation. He warned that unilateral judgement and politicisation of tragic events undermine stability.
He strongly condemned India’s unilateral and adventurist actions, including Operation Sindoor, calling them reckless and destabilising and warning that such conduct threatens regional peace and the strategic balance.
Gilani expressed serious concern over continued interference and support to hostile elements operating against Pakistan, describing such actions as a direct violation of sovereignty and international norms. He cautioned against any attempts to undermine the Indus Waters Treaty, saying coercive measures would amount to dangerous escalation and risk regional resource security.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s position, Gilani stressed that while the country remains committed to peace, it will respond firmly, proportionately and decisively to any aggression or adventurism. He concluded that Pakistan will continue to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests with full resolve and will counter any effort to destabilise the region or distort facts internationally.
