Gen Z, media synergy bolstered Pakistan’s global narrative during Marka-e-Haq: Tarar

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd May, 2026) Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday said that Pakistan’s youth, particularly Gen Z and social media influencers, alongside the mainstream media, played a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s narrative during “Marka-e-Haq,” contributing to national unity and boosting the morale of the armed forces and the nation.

Addressing an event marking one year of the success of Marka-e-Haq, the minister paid special tribute to the youth, social media influencers and digital users, saying their contributions would be remembered in golden words whenever the history of Marka-e-Haq was written.

“Alongside conventional warfare, there was also a digital front where our Gen Z and social media users played a remarkable role. Their efforts helped counter misinformation, strengthen national morale and project Pakistan’s stance effectively,” he said.

The minister also appreciated the responsible role played by the Pakistani media, both mainstream and digital, stating that their fact-based and mature reporting reinforced the national narrative.

“We could not have achieved this without the support of social media platforms and mainstream media. It was a collective effort and true teamwork of the entire nation,” he added.

He termed it a moment of gratitude, saying that the nation was fortunate to celebrate the anniversary of a decisive phase that brought a clear distinction in Pakistan’s global standing.

“It is by the grace of Almighty Allah that one year after Marka-e-Haq, a clear distinction has emerged in the world. On one side stands Pakistan—post May 10, 2025—where at the governmental, public, diplomatic, narrative and military levels, the country enjoys respect, dignity and recognition globally,” he said. He added that the Pakistani passport and the green crescent flag were being respected internationally, and people around the world now felt pride in associating with Pakistan.

Drawing a contrast with the regional environment, Tarar said the difference was evident, as Pakistan had emerged with strength and clarity while challenges persisted across the eastern border.

Highlighting the multi-dimensional nature of Marka-e-Haq, the minister said the campaign was fought successfully on multiple fronts, including diplomatic, narrative and conventional domains.

On the diplomatic front, he said Pakistan acted as a responsible state, citing the Pahalgam "false flag operation," where Pakistan called for a fair, transparent and independent inquiry. Despite the lack of response, he said, Pakistan expressed concern, sorrow and sympathy with the victims, reflecting its responsible conduct.

He emphasized that Pakistan remained a frontline state against terrorism, making immense sacrifices, including those by armed forces personnel and civilians, while consistently upholding its commitment against terrorism.

Referring to regional tensions, the minister said Pakistan had exposed hostile elements, stating, “On the other side is a country whose agents we catch — sometimes Kulbhushan, sometimes Abhinandan.” He added that despite narratives built elsewhere, “the reality is that Indian spy Kulbhushan was caught red-handed and remains in Pakistani custody.”

He further pointed to international concerns, referring to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and persecution of Sikh communities beyond eastern Punjab, on the behest of India, extending to countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, terming it a matter of global attention.

The minister said the narrative front was equally significant, where effective coordination between the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB) and Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) ensured a smooth and uninterrupted flow of information.

“I must acknowledge the role of DG ISPR, General Ahmed Sharif, whose efforts helped create an enabling environment. It was great teamwork between MOIB and ISPR that ensured cohesion and synergy in presenting Pakistan’s narrative internationally,” he remarked.

Tarar noted that Pakistan successfully presented its stance on global platforms, including CNN, BBC, Sky news, Al Jazeera and TRT, ensuring that the country’s perspective was effectively communicated worldwide.

Referring to Pakistan’s defense preparedness, Tarar commended the armed forces for their professionalism and readiness. He specifically acknowledged the role of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu and his team for their effective defense, and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf for maintaining operational readiness.

He said that when tensions escalated, Pakistan responded effectively, including the downing of multiple aircraft during the conflict. He said that despite days of heightened rhetoric following incidents in areas including AJK, Bahawalpur and Muridke, the situation shifted rapidly after Pakistan’s response. “Within hours, those who had been issuing strong statements were seen calling for a ceasefire,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s decisive response demonstrated its capability and resolve.

He further said that Pakistan’s response under Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos reflected strategic clarity, noting that the country acted with restraint and faith. “Our response came at dawn after prayers, and it reflected both preparedness and resolve,” he added, referring to the use of Fatah missile systems during the operation.

Highlighting national unity, the minister said that the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the strategic leadership of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir played a key role in navigating the situation with courage and wisdom. “This was a defining moment in modern warfare, where unity, coordination and clarity of purpose enabled Pakistan to achieve success across multiple fronts,” he added.

Tarar reiterated that there would be no compromise on Pakistan’s security and dignity, stressing that the country’s future was bright and its global standing would continue to improve. “This is a day to thank Almighty Allah. The respect Pakistan has earned over the past year will continue to grow, and we must remain united to build a stronger future for coming generations,” he said.

Concluding his address, the minister expressed the hope that Pakistan would continue to progress and prosper, fulfilling the vision of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. “Let us move forward with unity and determination to build a Pakistan that reflects the aspirations of our founding leaders,” he said.