In a notable shift from its long-standing stance, Pakistan’s Army has publicly acknowledged its involvement in the 1999 Kargil War with India. Speaking at an event commemorating Defence Day, Army Chief General Asim Munir paid tribute to Pakistani soldiers who lost their lives in various conflicts with India, including the Kargil War, a subject previously avoided in official narratives for over 20 years.
“Whether it was 1948, 1965, 1971, or the Kargil war of 1999, thousands of soldiers sacrificed their lives for the country and Islam,” General Munir stated, honoring the fallen soldiers. His remarks mark the first time Pakistan has officially recognized the role of its military in the Kargil conflict, previously attributed to Kashmiri militants and “mujahideen.”
The Kargil conflict saw Pakistani forces occupying strategic positions in Kashmir, prompting a military response from India. The situation ended with Pakistan’s withdrawal under pressure from US President Bill Clinton and India’s continued assertion that the aggression was a direct military action by Pakistan.
The acknowledgment comes amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan over issues such as the Kashmir dispute and regular skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC).
