Pakistan, Aug. 5 -- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday said Pakistan prefers peace, dialogue, and diplomacy over conflict, but will respond strongly to any aggression. Speaking at a rally in Islamabad on Youm-e-Istehsal, Dar warned that Pakistan's peaceful stance should not be taken as a sign of weakness.

He recalled that on August 5, 2019, India revoked Article 370 of its Constitution to bring Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) under direct rule. Dar emphasized that India must reverse these illegal steps, end its oppressive actions, and lift the media blackout in the region.

Thousands participated in the rally, which began at the Foreign Office and ended at D-Chowk. Federal ministers, Hurri...