In the wake of escalating tensions and recent armed skirmishes with India, the Pakistani military may be experiencing a resurgence in public popularity. This comes after a period where the military's image had been somewhat tarnished by political controversies and economic struggles within the country. The renewed sense of external threat, coupled with the military's assertive response, appears to be contributing to this shift in public sentiment.
Recent events, including the Pahalgam attack in April 2025 that killed 27 people and the subsequent retaliatory strikes by India codenamed "Operation Sindoor", have heightened tensions between the two nations. These events have created an environment of perceived crisis, which often leads to increased nationalistic fervor and a rallying around national symbols, including the military.
Historically, the Pakistani military has enjoyed significant public support, often seen as a guarantor of national security and stability. A Gallup survey in 2023 indicated an 88% approval rating for the Pakistan Army, the highest among various institutions in the country. However, this support has fluctuated over time, influenced by factors such as the military's involvement in politics, economic performance, and perceptions of corruption.
Several factors contribute to the potential revival of the military's popularity. Firstly, the conflict with India, regardless of its intensity, serves as a reminder of the military's primary role: defending the nation against external aggression. In times of crisis, the public tends to overlook other concerns and prioritize national unity and security. Secondly, the military's media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), plays a crucial role in shaping public perception through carefully crafted narratives and publicity campaigns. These campaigns often highlight the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers, reinforcing the image of the military as a patriotic and dedicated institution.
Furthermore, the actions taken by the Pakistani military in response to the recent crisis, such as putting the military on high alert and vowing to retaliate against Indian aggression, can be seen as a display of strength and resolve. This can resonate positively with a public seeking reassurance and protection in uncertain times. However, it's important to note that the military's popularity is not uniform across all segments of Pakistani society. Region-wise breakdowns from a 2023 Gallup survey revealed that while Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab showed the highest approval ratings for the army, Balochistan showed the lowest.
It is also important to consider that anti-India sentiment, while perhaps waning in some segments of the population, can still be a powerful mobilizing force. The perception of India as an existential threat has historically been a cornerstone of Pakistani national identity, and the military has often been portrayed as the primary defender against this threat. However, some reports indicate that anti-India feelings are waning, as indicated by the popularity of Indian pop culture.
In conclusion, while it is difficult to definitively measure the exact extent of the Pakistani military's resurgence in popularity, it is likely that the recent conflict with India has contributed to a more favorable public perception. This is due to a combination of factors, including the perceived threat from India, the military's role as a defender of national security, and the ISPR's efforts to shape public opinion. However, the sustainability of this trend will depend on various factors, including the future trajectory of India-Pakistan relations, the military's conduct in domestic affairs, and the overall socio-economic conditions in Pakistan.
