In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan has declared victory in its most significant military confrontation with India in over 50 years. While the government lauds its performance, many analysts suggest the four-day clash was more of a stalemate. For a nation enmeshed in political and economic turmoil, this moment of military pride has momentarily masked ongoing challenges. Celebrating rallies featuring Pakistan’s national flags and anti-India slogans have erupted across cities, particularly Karachi, as citizens express support for their armed forces. “It feels like we’ve won something,” shared banker Hafeez Siddiqui, reflecting a shift in public sentiment following a period of war anxiety. The recent political upheaval following the ouster and imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan had left the government’s legitimacy in question, but for now, a fragile sense of confidence in the military has returned.