COAS General Asim Munir promoted to the highest rank of Field Marshal following a paramount victory against India.
The federal cabinet on Tuesday elevated Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of field marshal, acknowledging his valor and leadership during a landmark military victory against India.
In a meeting led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the cabinet approved the promotion of Gen Munir in appreciation of his command in the critical Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the intense battle termed Marka-e-Haq.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Gen Munir was praised for his outstanding bravery and resolve, which enabled him to coordinate a unified military response that delivered a historic success for Pakistan.
“The Government of Pakistan has sanctioned the elevation of Gen Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to field marshal in recognition of his strategic acumen and bold leadership in ensuring national security and defeating the enemy.”
Gen Munir now becomes the second military officer in Pakistan’s history to attain the five-star field marshal rank, last held by Ayub Khan in 1965 — a title inspired by British military traditions, signifying extraordinary wartime leadership.
The cabinet’s decision follows the conclusion of a high-stakes military conflict with India, regarded as the most serious since the 1999 Kargil episode.
The government celebrated the outcome of Marka-e-Haq as a milestone in the evolution of Pakistan’s defence strategy and military preparedness.
Gen Munir, who assumed command of the army in November 2022, accepted the honour with humility and expressed deep gratitude.
In a statement issued by the military’s media arm, ISPR, Gen Munir said the field marshal title was not a personal accolade but a tribute to the nation and the armed forces. He dedicated it to the people of Pakistan and all civil and military heroes.
“This honour reflects the faith of the nation, paid for by countless sacrifices. It symbolises the collective bravery of our people, not an individual achievement.”
The Prime Minister’s Office also confirmed that Prime Minister Sharif had consulted President Asif Ali Zardari prior to the promotion announcement.
It remains uncertain, however, whether this elevation will impact Gen Munir’s tenure or extend his term beyond the usual retirement period.
Separately, the cabinet decided to extend the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu beyond his current term, though the duration of the extension was not disclosed.
As a sign of national appreciation, the cabinet also announced that military personnel, veterans, martyrs, and civilians who played crucial roles in the recent operation would receive official state honours.
Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Gen Munir on his promotion, commending his role in leading Operation Bunyanum Marsoos with exceptional resolve and professionalism.
He specifically lauded Gen Munir’s leadership in countering the adversary’s plans and restoring strategic equilibrium in the region.
PM Sharif also paid tribute to the bravery of every soldier involved, expressing national pride in Gen Munir and the armed forces for their courage and sacrifice.
Field marshal promotions in Pakistan are rare and symbolic, reserved for military leaders who demonstrate extraordinary wartime command and serve as national icons.
Gen Munir’s elevation marks the revival of this prestigious rank after decades of dormancy in Pakistan’s military history.
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