COAS General Asim Munir promoted to rank of Field Martial 

Islamabad (Web Desk): The federal government on Tuesday promoted Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, recognizing his exceptional leadership and strategic brilliance during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos which led to a decisive defeat of the enemy while safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty.

According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, (PMO), the federal cabinet which met under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, lauded the operation as a monumental success in the nation’s history, lauding the armed forces for their coordinated and courageous response to Indian aggression during the nights of May 6 and 7, 2025.

The cabinet also decided to retain the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu upon completion of his tenure, recognizing his significant contributions to Pakistan’s air defence.

The meeting recalled that India launched an unprovoked and unjustified war, targeting civilian areas and inflicting casualties among innocent men, women, and children.

In response, General Asim Munir led the Pakistan Army with outstanding courage and resolve, effectively uniting the Armed Forces under a singular, strategic command.

“His exemplary leadership and battlefield coordination were instrumental in turning the tide and securing a historic victory for Pakistan, now referred to as the Marka-e-Haq.”

The federal cabinet noted that the enemy’s bids to violate Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were thwarted with full force, crediting General Asim Munir’s bold military leadership for the successful defence of the homeland.

In acknowledgment of his valour, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed the promotion which was unanimously approved by the cabinet.

The prime minister also met with President Asif Ali Zardari to brief him about the decision and take him into confidence on this historic step.

Meanwhile, the federal cabinet also announced plans to confer top national honours on military officers, soldiers, martyrs, veterans, and civilians who played vital roles during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

Expressing deep gratitude to Allah Almighty upon being conferred the rank of Field Marshal, General Syed Asim dedicating the honour to the entire nation, the Pakistan Armed Forces, and especially to the martyrs and veterans—both civil and military.

“This is not a personal achievement, but a tribute to the armed forces and the people of Pakistan,” said Field Marshal Munir in a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Field Martial Asim Munir extended thanks to the President, Prime Minister, and the federal cabinet for their trust, emphasising that the honour is a national trust that demands the highest sacrifice.

“Millions of Asims are ready to lay down their lives to uphold it,” he added.

It is pertinent to mention that a Field Marshal is the highest honorary rank in Pakistan Army, typically denoted by five stars and positioned above the rank of General.

While the title does not usually come with operational command, it is conferred in recognition of exceptional military leadership, strategic acumen, and significant contributions to national defence.

Despite its symbolic importance and prestige, the rank of Field Marshal does not carry any additional constitutional authority.

In a rare development, Pakistan’s COAS General Asim Munir has become only the second individual in the country's history to be awarded the rank of Field Marshal. The only other recipient of this honour was former President Mohammad Ayub Khan, who was conferred the title in 1959.

General Syed Asim Munir —a brief profile

General Syed Asim Munir joined the Pakistan Army through the Mangla Officers Training School programme, eventually earning his commission in the Frontier Force Regiment. Over the years, he held several significant positions, shaping a distinguished military career. As a brigadier, he commanded the Northern Areas Force, demonstrating leadership in a strategically sensitive region.

In early 2017, he was appointed as the director-general of Military Intelligence (MI), a role that marked his entry into high-level intelligence operations. The following year, he took charge of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), becoming one of the few officers to lead both of the country's top intelligence agencies.

After his tenure at ISI, Asim Munir was assigned as Corps Commander in Gujranwala, where he served for two years, further broadening his command experience. He later held the role of Quartermaster General at the General Headquarters (GHQ), handling critical logistical and administrative functions.

In November 2022, he was elevated to the position of Chief of Army Staff (COAS), assuming command of the Pakistan Army.

His appointment marked a historical moment, as he became the first army chief to have previously led both MI and ISI.

Gen Asim Munir also holds the distinction of being the first army chief awarded the Sword of Honour, an accolade given to the top-performing cadet at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), highlighting his exceptional performance from the earliest days of his military career.