Former Pakistan captain and renowned all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi met with the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
During this meeting, which took place at the Prime Minister's House in Islamabad, Shahid Afridi congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the remarkable success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar was also present during the meeting. Shahid Khan Afridi praised the armed forces for giving a strong response to India's aggression.
He stated that at this critical juncture, the entire nation united and gave a powerful reply to the enemy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Shahid Afridi, congratulated him on his solidarity with the nation and the armed forces, and praised the successful rally that was held.
Previously, Shahid Afridi strongly criticised India during a period of heightened tensions between the two countries. Afridi condemned the Indian government for its aggression and expressed full confidence in the strength and preparedness of Pakistan’s military.
He dismissed India’s threats, saying Pakistan’s forces were highly trained and not easily intimidated. Responding to accusations linking Pakistan to the Pahalgam attack, Afridi called it a “false flag operation” and labelled the Modi government “inept”.
Following his remarks, India reportedly blocked Afridi’s YouTube channel, along with 15 other Pakistani channels, including those of former cricketers Rashid Latif, Shoaib Akhtar, and Basit Ali.
Afridi also lashed out at Indian media for its exaggerated war coverage, referring to it as “Cartoon Network” journalism. His comments resonated with many Pakistanis who believed Indian broadcasters fuelled conflict rather than reporting responsibly.
Speaking at a rally in Karachi, Afridi praised Pakistan’s armed forces for what he described as a strong response to Indian aggression, stating that India had underestimated the cost of provoking Pakistan. He accused Indian forces of targeting civilians and religious sites, including mosques.
Afridi also criticised Modi’s global image, referencing allegations related to attacks on Sikh activists abroad. He stated that Modi was now facing international consequences for his actions.
The rally, part of the government-declared “Youm-e-Tashakur” (Day of Gratitude), saw thousands of citizens express their support for the armed forces.
Tensions between Pakistan and India recently flared up after an attack in Pahalgam, India Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan without providing evidence, triggering a series of retaliatory moves including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, cancelling visas, and scaling back diplomatic ties.
Pakistan rejected the allegations and responded with reciprocal steps such as halting trade and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft. The conflict escalated on May 7 with Indian missile strikes on multiple cities in Punjab and AJK, killing dozens of civilians.
Pakistan responded by downing several Indian jets and neutralising drone attacks. On May 10, Indian missile strikes targeted Pakistani airbases, prompting a retaliatory campaign—Operation Bunyan Marsoos—which hit Indian military sites.
A ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump on May 11, following overnight diplomatic efforts, and was later confirmed by officials from both sides.