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Gen Asim Munir Elevated to Field Marshal Rank with Cabinet's Approval
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The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal in recognition of his leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and his strategic role throughout the conflict period with India, referred to as Marka-i-Haq.
This elevation places General Munir in a historically rare position, as the rank of Field Marshal is the highest attainable in armies modeled after the British military tradition. It has previously been conferred only once in Pakistan’s history—upon General Mohammad Ayub Khan by the presidential cabinet in 1959.
Government Statement and Sidhu's Tenure Extension
A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed the promotion and emphasized that it reflects the state’s acknowledgment of Gen Munir’s extraordinary service and leadership. The cabinet also unanimously decided to extend the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu beyond his current term, citing the need for continuity in military leadership.
Gen Asim Munir’s Military Career
General Munir’s military career spans several decades and key appointments. He was commissioned into the Frontier Force Regiment through the Officers Training School in Mangla. In 2018, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant general and soon after assumed important operational and strategic responsibilities.
That same year, he briefly served as Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), after having led Military Intelligence in 2017. His tenure at ISI was cut short reportedly due to differences with then-Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Despite that interruption, Munir went on to command the Gujranwala Corps, one of the Pakistan Army’s critical operational formations. Later, he was appointed as Quartermaster General at the General Headquarters (GHQ), before being named Chief of Army Staff in November 2022. His four-year term as COAS is set to conclude on November 27, 2026.
Strategic Implications of the Promotion
The government’s decision to promote Gen Munir and extend Air Chief Marshal Sidhu’s service comes at a time of evolving regional dynamics and underscores Islamabad’s emphasis on experienced and stable military leadership.
