The federal cabinet has officially approved Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s proposal to elevate Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of field marshal. The rare promotion is a tribute to his exceptional military leadership and strategic brilliance, particularly showcased during Pakistan’s recent triumph in the Marka-e-Haq, a significant military confrontation following an unprovoked assault by India on the night of May 6 and 7.
The cabinet session, chaired by the Prime Minister, was primarily focused on the nation’s political, economic, and security developments, including budget planning. However, the centerpiece of the meeting was the unanimous agreement to award General Asim Munir the highest honorary rank in Pakistan’s military structure—a distinction granted only once before in the nation’s history. The government highlighted that during a critical period when Pakistani civilians, including women and children, were under threat, General Munir’s leadership in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos proved decisive in ensuring national security and defeating hostile forces.
According to the official statement, this promotion reflects the government’s acknowledgment of his strategic depth, bravery, and successful execution of military operations during a time of national peril. Prior to this, only Mohammad Ayub Khan had been promoted to field marshal, making Munir the second in Pakistan’s history to receive this honour.
The title of field marshal is symbolically the highest military rank—a five-star designation signifying supreme command stature; though it holds no additional constitutional or operational powers beyond those of a general, it is reserved for military figures whose service transcends conventional leadership.
General Asim Munir’s journey in the military is marked by distinguished service and amazing milestones. He was commissioned through the Mangla Officers Training School into the Frontier Force Regiment, he rose through the ranks, commanding troops in the Northern Areas as a brigadier. His intelligence acumen was evident during his tenure as Director-General of Military Intelligence in 2017, followed by a historic appointment as Director-General of ISI in 2018—making him the only Chief of Army Staff to have led both intelligence wings.
Before becoming Pakistan’s 17th army chief in November 2022, he also commanded the Gujranwala Corps and served as Quarter Master General at GHQ. Adding to his legacy, he is the first army chief to receive the coveted Sword of Honour—further cementing his place as one of Pakistan’s most decorated military leaders.
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