1. A Historic Promotion for COAS Gen Asim Munir
The federal cabinet has officially approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of field marshal—a position held by only one other in Pakistan’s history, General Ayub Khan in 1959. This elevation comes in recognition of Gen Munir’s exceptional leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the high-stakes military conflict with India, now referred to as Marka-i-Haq.
The announcement was made via a notification from the Ministry of Defence under Rule 199-A of the Pakistan Army Regulations (1998). The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) credited Gen Munir’s strategic oversight, battlefield coordination, and courageous defense of the nation as central to Pakistan’s historic military success.
2. Recognizing Military Strategy and National Defense
The PMO detailed Gen Munir’s strategic achievements in confronting Indian aggression. From intercepting hostile drones to commanding retaliatory strikes, his leadership was hailed as “exemplary and courageous.” Pakistan’s response led to the downing of five Indian fighter jets and several tit-for-tat airbase operations. Tensions climaxed before a US-mediated ceasefire was brokered on May 10, preventing further escalation.
In appreciation of service during these operations, the cabinet also announced state honors for officers, soldiers, war veterans, and martyrs across military and civilian sectors. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed full confidence in the decision and acknowledged Gen Munir’s significant role in safeguarding the homeland.
3. Public and Military Response to the Honor
General Asim Munir, expressing gratitude in a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), dedicated the honor to the nation, armed forces, and martyrs. “This is not an individual honour but a national one,” he said. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed this sentiment, stating that “Pakistan salutes Field Marshal Asim Munir and our brave martyrs.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also extended congratulations, attributing the promotion to Gen Munir’s professionalism, skill, and dedication. Meanwhile, the federal government decided to extend the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, acknowledging his contributions alongside the army leadership.
This historic moment underscores the nation’s recognition of its armed forces’ critical role in defending sovereignty and maintaining regional peace.
