In a landmark decision, Pakistan’s Federal Cabinet has formally approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to the esteemed rank of Field Marshal.
This recognition honors his outstanding leadership during Marka-e-Haq and the successful Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.
The elevation highlights General Munir’s critical role in designing and executing strategic military operations that safeguarded Pakistan’s sovereignty during a period of heightened threats.
His leadership, intelligence coordination, and flawless operational planning were praised for “defeating the enemy” and restoring stability in the region.
Marka-e-Haq, considered a milestone in recent military history, along with Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, is viewed as a clear demonstration of Pakistan’s military capability and resilience.
Officials from the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the promotion received unanimous approval from the cabinet, marking the first time in many years that such a high military honor has been granted.
The announcement has been welcomed by defense and political leaders alike, who described it as a “fitting tribute to a soldier-statesman who delivered under immense pressure.”
With this move, General Asim Munir now becomes one of the few Field Marshals in the country’s history, a rare and distinguished military rank signifying extraordinary service.
Nation Applauds
In a series of individual messages, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, federal ministers, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and all services chiefs offered their heartfelt congratulations to General Asim Munir on his promotion to the rank of Field Marshal.
In an official statement released by the President’s House, President Zardari commended Field Marshal Munir for delivering a strong and effective response to unprovoked Indian aggression, successfully countering hostile intentions from across the border.
“The rank of field marshal is a recognition of your services in defense of the homeland,” said President Zardari.
He further stated that Field Marshal Munir and the Pakistan Armed Forces deserve high praise for their strategic brilliance. Under the new field marshal’s leadership, the armed forces dismantled the enemy’s aggressive ambitions and responded with a well-calculated military strategy.
The president emphasized that the entire nation stands behind Field Marshal Munir, acknowledging his unwavering contributions toward protecting Pakistan’s security, sovereignty, and efforts in the fight against terrorism.
President Zardari also congratulated Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu on the extension of his tenure. He credited the air chief’s strategic planning and leadership as the reason Pakistan’s Air Force successfully countered the Indian Air Force’s threats.
Under Air Chief Marshal Sidhu’s command, the Pakistan Air Force demonstrated its strength and gave a firm response to adversarial actions, the president added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, also extended warm congratulations to General Asim Munir, calling his promotion to Field Marshal a moment of great pride for the entire nation.
Field Marshal Asim Munir
General Asim Munir assumed the role of Chief of Army Staff in late 2022 and is widely recognized for his strong operational background and deep religious roots.
He began his military journey at the Officers Training School in Mangla, where he received the Sword of Honour. He was commissioned into the 23rd Battalion of the Frontier Force Regiment and progressed through a series of important command roles.
As a brigadier, he led forces in the Northern Areas during General Bajwa’s tenure as commander of the X Corps.
He has held prominent intelligence roles, serving as Director General of Military Intelligence and later as Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in October 2018.
He also commanded the Gujranwala Corps and later became Quartermaster General at the General Headquarters.
General Munir has received the Hilal-i-Imtiaz in recognition of his service. He is also known for being the first army chief in the country who is a ‘Hafiz-e-Quran’, having memorized the entire Holy Quran.