Conflict with India Enhances Pakistan Military’s Domestic Reputation
Islamabad, Pakistan – On May 9, 2023, Pakistan experienced a significant wave of protests, as thousands took to the streets across major cities. Demonstrators targeted both public and private properties, especially those associated with the influential Pakistani military. Prominent among the attacks was the army’s General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and the residence of a top military commander in Lahore, which was ignited in flames amid escalating tensions.
The protests were initiated by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who were voicing their dissent against the arrest of their leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan was detained on corruption charges while appearing at the Islamabad High Court, though he was released within 48 hours. This series of events marked a notable challenge to the military’s historical dominance, which has long been perceived as the most powerful authority in Pakistan, wielding considerable influence across various sectors.
Fast forward to May 11, 2025, and the dynamics have shifted dramatically. Large crowds filled the streets, this time to celebrate and express appreciation for the military. Recent military confrontations with India had inspired renewed support for the military’s role in defending national interests. A survey by Gallup Pakistan, conducted between May 11 and 15, revealed that an overwhelming 96 percent of respondents believed Pakistan had emerged victorious during these engagements. Moreover, 82 percent rated the military’s performance as “very good,” signaling a significant shift in public perception.
The military’s influence is further reinforced by the historical context of its role as a protector of Pakistan’s borders and ideology. Analysts note that the longstanding rivalry with India, particularly over the Kashmir region, has entrenched the military’s position in Pakistan’s societal and political landscape. The recent tensions were ignited by India launching missiles at multiple locations in Pakistan-apportioned Kashmir and the Punjab province following an attack that resulted in the loss of civilian lives.
In the wake of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10, Pakistan’s government declared this day “The Day of the Righteous Battle,” contrasting starkly with the tumultuous events of May 9. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the military’s actions as a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s military history, reflecting a collective sense of national pride and unity.
Despite the jubilant atmosphere, political analysts caution against presuming that this surge in military support will persist. Observations indicate that while cities like Punjab exhibited overt support for the military, regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan remain critical, harboring resentments toward military actions. Such complexities bode the question of how these sentiments will influence domestic politics as Pakistan moves forward.
While the tide of public opinion appears to favor the military at this moment, the real challenge lies ahead: ensuring sustained public support requires addressing broader economic issues and avoiding continual conflict dynamics with India. The next chapter of Pakistan’s military and political narrative will greatly depend on how effectively these lessons are heeded in the post-conflict context.
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