Former Pakistan captain and renowned all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad. During the meeting, Afridi congratulated the Prime Minister on the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, a military campaign that has been widely praised for its strong response to India’s aggression.
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar was also present during the meeting. Afridi commended Pakistan’s armed forces for their swift and decisive actions, stating that at this critical juncture, the nation stood united, delivering a powerful response to India’s aggression. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his gratitude to Afridi, praising him for his support of both the nation and the military, and acknowledging the successful rally that took place.
Earlier, Shahid Afridi had been vocal in his criticism of India, especially during the heightened tensions between the two countries. He condemned the Indian government for its aggression and expressed complete confidence in Pakistan’s military, emphasizing their strength and readiness. Afridi dismissed India’s accusations, specifically regarding the Pahalgam attack, calling it a “false flag operation” and labeling the Modi government as “inept.”
In retaliation, India reportedly blocked Afridi’s YouTube channel, along with 15 other Pakistani channels, including those of former cricketers like Rashid Latif, Shoaib Akhtar, and Basit Ali. Afridi also criticized the Indian media’s portrayal of the conflict, describing it as “Cartoon Network” journalism for fueling the tensions rather than reporting objectively.
Afridi’s comments resonated with many Pakistanis who believed that Indian broadcasters were amplifying conflict rather than contributing to peace. During a rally in Karachi, Afridi praised Pakistan’s armed forces for delivering a strong response to India’s aggression, asserting that India had severely underestimated the consequences of provoking Pakistan. He accused Indian forces of targeting civilians and religious sites, including mosques.
Further, Afridi took aim at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s international image, referencing allegations linked to attacks on Sikh activists abroad. He noted that Modi was facing increasing international pressure due to his actions. The rally, which was part of the government’s declared “Youm-e-Tashakur” (Day of Gratitude), saw thousands of citizens express their support for the military.
The escalation between Pakistan and India was triggered by an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, located in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan without presenting any evidence, and in response, Pakistan rejected the allegations and took reciprocal actions such as halting trade and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft.
Tensions escalated further on May 7, when India launched missile strikes on multiple cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in dozens of civilian casualties. Pakistan retaliated by downing several Indian jets and neutralizing drone attacks. On May 10, Indian missile strikes targeted Pakistani airbases, prompting Pakistan to launch Operation Bunyan Marsoos, which targeted Indian military sites.
The situation was brought under control after a ceasefire was announced on May 11, following intense diplomatic efforts led by US President Donald Trump. The ceasefire was later confirmed by officials from both Pakistan and India.
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