Pakistan Celebrates 79th Independence Day With Fireworks, Flags and Calls for Peace

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day with fireworks, flag ceremonies and large public gatherings across the country.

Crowds filled streets and public spaces in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and other cities as the country marked its emergence as an independent state on 14 August 1947. Fireworks illuminated Pakistan's capital shortly after midnight while participants dressed in the country's green and white national colours waved flags and joined patriotic celebrations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used his national address to emphasise Pakistan's desire for peace while warning that the country would respond strongly to threats against its sovereignty.

This year's ceremonies are taking place against the backdrop of persistent tensions with India. Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours deteriorated sharply following their military confrontation in May 2025, which involved missile and drone strikes before a ceasefire was reached. The two countries continue to disagree over Kashmir and the operation of their long-standing water-sharing arrangements.

Pakistan's official celebrations included the unveiling of a new monument in Islamabad commemorating what its government portrays as its military success in the 2025 confrontation. India disputes Pakistan's broader account of the conflict, making careful attribution important when reporting national claims surrounding the episode.

For millions of Pakistanis, however, Friday remains primarily a celebration of nationhood, independence and national identity.

Sources: Government of Pakistan, Reuters.