Recent national and international surveys have revealed a significant positive shift in attitudes among Generation Z and Generation Alpha towards the Pakistan Armed Forces. Many young Pakistanis now view the military as a stabilizing force, particularly in light of Pakistan’s reported role in helping broker peace efforts between the United States and Iran to prevent a wider regional conflict.
Public Approval of Diplomatic Role
High levels of public approval have emerged regarding Pakistan’s diplomatic role in the Iran-US tensions, with many people praising the country’s efforts towards peace. Surveys suggest that a large percentage of Pakistanis support the Armed Forces’ role in promoting regional stability, while Pakistani youth continue to display patriotism and optimism.
Pakistan’s military leadership has been viewed by many as playing the role of a “key intermediary” during the Iran-US crisis in April 2026 in an effort to promote global peace and avoid the threat of a wider war. At the same time, many Pakistani members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha have shown strong nationalistic sentiments and support for national institutions, while also holding high expectations of the state.
Shift Amidst Past Criticism
This development has emerged against the backdrop of years of criticism and hostility directed towards the state and the Pakistan Armed Forces. The Armed Forces have faced attacks on military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi during the events of 9 May 2023. Following the attacks of 11 September 2001, the United States adopted strict counterterrorism policies and dismantled terrorist networks globally. Some argue that Pakistan should similarly adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards attacks on military installations and state institutions.
Foundations of the Shift
It is also argued that the foundations of this shift in opinion among younger generations were laid in 2008 with the slogan “Pakistan Khappay” introduced by Asif Ali Zardari, who has at times been referred to by supporters as the “Asian Nelson Mandela”. Zardari spent many years in prison without conviction and later adopted a policy of political reconciliation. Supporters view his slogan of “Pakistan Khappay” (“Long Live Pakistan”) as a symbol of commitment to national unity during a turbulent period in Pakistan’s history.
Regional Dynamics and Future Prospects
In the evolving regional scenario following the US-Iran peace efforts, some analysts believe Pakistan’s military and political leadership may seek to strengthen relations with countries such as Russia, China, and Iran, including projects like the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline agreement signed in 2013. In this context, President Asif Ali Zardari’s diplomatic experience is often highlighted. He was the first democratically elected President of Pakistan to visit Russia after 9/11, undertaking an official state visit in 2011 to improve bilateral relations.
During his earlier tenure, Zardari frequently visited China to strengthen economic ties. After beginning his second term as President of Pakistan on 10 March 2024, he continued this diplomatic engagement through further visits to China in 2025 and 2026, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China relations. These visits focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and Pakistan’s regional role.
“Pakistan Khappay” — “Long Live Pakistan”.
DR SAIF UR REHMAN, Islamabad.
