Fireworks Light Islamabad as Pakistan Marks 79th Independence Day; PM Warns 'Water Is Our Red Line'

Fireworks erupted over Pakistan's capital at midnight as jubilant crowds poured into streets across the country to mark the 79th anniversary of independence. Waves of green and white filled major roads and public spaces, with families—including many women and children—joining the celebrations and chanting 'Long Live Pakistan.'

People visit a market to buy clothes specially prepared in national colors for the Pakistan's Independence Day celebrations, in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. (AP Photo/Muhammad Sajjad)(AP Photo/Muhammad Sajjad)

In Islamabad, spectators lined major thoroughfares as bursts of fireworks lit the night sky. The city also saw the inauguration of the 'Yadgar-e-Fatah' (Monument of Victory), unveiled as part of the day's official observances.

University students attend a ceremony in connection with the Pakistan's Independence Day celebrations, in Karachi, Pakistan, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. (AP Photo/Ali Raza)(AP Photo/Ali Raza)

Background

Pakistan emerged as an independent state on Aug. 14, 1947, following the end of British colonial rule and the partition of the Indian subcontinent. Official ceremonies, including flag-raising events and other commemorations, were scheduled to continue on Friday.

Fireworks light the sky over the Minar-e-Pakistan monument marking Independence Day in Lahore, Pakistan, Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)(AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Tensions With India

In a televised address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan seeks peace but warned that this desire should not be mistaken for weakness. He referred to a four-day conflict with India in May 2025, saying threats to Pakistan's sovereignty would draw a strong response.

The recent fighting followed an attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir that killed 26 people. India accused Pakistan-backed militants of responsibility, an allegation Islamabad denied. The nuclear-armed rivals exchanged missile, drone and other strikes before a ceasefire halted the clashes.

Sharif also criticized India for suspending the World Bank-brokered Indus Waters Treaty, calling access to water a national 'red line.'

Every drop of water is our red line, Sharif said, warning that Pakistan would respond if its water supplies were threatened.

As public celebrations continued, officials balanced displays of national pride with reminders that diplomatic and security concerns stemming from the recent clashes remain unresolved.