May has always had a significant bearing in the history of Pakistan, containing elements of power, pain, and pivotal shifts in the narrative.
From the first Islamic nuclear superpower to the dramatic national tragedies and audacious military maneuvers, May continues to mold the identity of Pakistan.
The most recent successful counter-operation against India on May 10, 2025, which was executed with great precision and tact and termed Operation Banyan Marsous, has only served to multiply the historic significance of the month.
May 28, 1998 – Pakistan as a nuclear state
One of the most identifying points in Pakistani history was May 28, 1998. As India had conducted five nuclear tests, Pakistan surprised everyone by performing six nuclear tests at Chagai, Balochistan, headed by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. In spite of unprecedented global pressure, the nation remained firm — asserting its defense strength and emerging as the first Islamic nuclear state. Ever since, May 28 has been commemorated as Youm-e-Takbeer, a reflection of national power.
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May 2, 2011 – the Osama Bin Laden operation
A key May event occurred in 2011 when U.S. forces carried out a secret mission in Abbottabad resulting in the death of Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden. The operation executed without Pakistan’s awareness, shocked the nation and the globe. While many saw it as a major blow to global terrorism, it also raised important concerns about Pakistan’s independence and intelligence capabilities.
May 12, 2007 – Karachi Burns
One of the darkest chapters in Karachi’s history unfolded on May 12, 2007. Over 50 people lost their lives in violent clashes and shootings when then-suspended Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry was scheduled to address the Sindh High Court Bar Association. The city plunged into chaos under the rule of then-President General Pervez Musharraf. The victims’ families still await justice, and the cases remain unresolved.
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May 9, 2023 – attacks on military facilities
May 9, 2023, was another black day when violent demonstrations broke out after the arrest of ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan in the Al-Qadir Trust case. Party supporters of PTI hit the streets and organized coordinated attacks on military bases — GHQ Rawalpindi and Jinnah House Lahore among them. The incidents shocked the nation, with everyone condemning the situation across the board. A large number of PTI leaders and workers are still in jail as the trials go on.
May 10, 2025 – Pakistan’s gallant response: Operation Banyan Marsous
This year, May has added another historic milestone when Pakistan initiated Operation Banyan Marsous in response to India’s cross-border aggression. The battle commenced after India accused Pakistan of an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Kashmir, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty — a move taken unilaterally that escalated diplomatically and militarily very aggressively.
India launched 24 coordinated attacks on Pakistani cities between May 6 and 7, targeting innocent civilians. Pakistan reacted immediately, downing five Indian aircraft and making stern warnings. The situation took a turn for the worse when India tried to attack Pakistani airbases with drones on May 10.
Know more: Pakistan responded in the language India understand best: PM Shehbaz
In a dramatic counterattack, Pakistan initiated Operation Banyan Marsous early in the morning of May 10. The Pakistan Air Force attacked deep within Indian territory, targeting important military bases and causing severe damage. The most memorable highlight of the operation was the destruction of India’s advanced S-400 air defense system, which captured international attention.
As per international military observers, such as Bulgaria Military Review, the destruction of the S-400 system was a game-changer in regional defense politics.
May 10 to be celebrated as “Youm-e-Ma’raka-e-Haq”
After the triumphant military campaign, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that May 10 will henceforth be celebrated every year as Youm-e-Ma’raka-e-Haq — the Day of the Battle for Truth — celebrating Pakistan’s defense forces and their glorious victory.
