The Federal Cabinet has promoted Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir to the distinguished rank of Field Marshal, recognizing his outstanding leadership and strategic excellence during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. This operation delivered a decisive victory against enemy forces in the recent Marka-e-Haq conflict, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s military history.
In a unanimous decision, the government also extended the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu beyond his current term, acknowledging his vital contributions to Pakistan’s air defense.
The Ministry of Defence formalized General Munir’s promotion with immediate effect under Pakistan Army Regulations. The rank of Field Marshal, the highest in the army and equivalent to a ceremonial five-star rank, has been awarded only once before in Pakistan—to General Mohammad Ayub Khan in 1959.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the Cabinet meeting that praised the coordinated and courageous response of the Armed Forces to Indian aggression on May 6 and 7, 2025. The government condemned the unprovoked attacks on civilian areas and recognized the sacrifice of soldiers, martyrs, and veterans.
General Munir’s promotion was hailed as a symbol of Pakistan’s sovereignty and military professionalism. The Prime Minister expressed heartfelt congratulations, emphasizing that this honor belongs not just to one individual but to the entire nation and its armed forces.
President Asif Ali Zardari also congratulated General Munir, highlighting the army chief’s exceptional military strategy and decisive leadership in defending the country against Indian aggression. He extended his best wishes to Air Chief Marshal Sidhu on his service extension.
General Munir dedicated the honor to the nation, armed forces, and especially to civil and military martyrs and veterans, describing the promotion as a collective achievement.
Senior officials including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and provincial leaders also praised the army chief’s strategic acumen and courage that forced India to retreat swiftly.
General Munir’s military career spans key leadership roles including heading Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence, as well as commanding corps and serving as quartermaster general.
The recent conflict followed escalating tensions after the Pahalgam attack and involved air strikes and drone interceptions between India and Pakistan. The crisis de-escalated with international mediation leading to a ceasefire, which remains in place without an expiry date.
This historic promotion marks the first time Pakistan has awarded the rank of Field Marshal in direct recognition of wartime leadership and military success. It reaffirms the rank’s significance as the highest honor for extraordinary military service and national defense.
General Asim Munir’s elevation represents a momentous chapter in Pakistan’s defense history and a tribute to the bravery and resilience of its armed forces during a critical time for the nation.