While politicians play politics, Pakistan’s soldiers make the ultimate sacrifice, says Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday paid tribute to the nation’s armed forces, stating that more than 3,000 military personnel have been martyred between 2021 and February 2026 while defending the country.

Speaking at a public address, Khawaja Asif said 170 officers and 2,759 junior commissioned officers (JCOs) and soldiers had lost their lives during this period. The majority of these sacrifices were from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, accounting for 2,034 deaths. Other regions also recorded significant losses: Punjab 1,657, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 534, Sindh 452, Gilgit-Baltistan 161, and Balochistan 103.

The minister underlined that while politicians often pursue personal power and political gain, the armed forces remain steadfast in protecting the nation. He urged political leaders not to cross moral boundaries for their own interests, saying: “Disagreements are natural, but one should never side with terrorists for personal gain.” He also warned that places of worship are not fully secure, and citizens cannot pray without a sense of the need for protection.

Khawaja Asif praised the soldiers for prioritising the nation above all else and emphasised that the high moral and spiritual standing of martyrs forms an integral part of Pakistan’s faith. He noted that the public owes its peace and daily life to the sacrifices of these heroes.