The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the historic promotion of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal. The decision, made during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comes in recognition of General Munir’s leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which repelled Indian aggression in early May 2025.
PM Shehbaz praised the operation as a “resounding success” that defended Pakistan’s sovereignty against unprovoked Indian missile attacks on civilian areas in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He commended General Munir for his “exceptional military leadership, bravery, and strategic command” in orchestrating a swift and coordinated response that included the downing of multiple Indian Rafale jets and destruction of enemy installations.
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The promotion was endorsed by President Asif Ali Zardari, who described it as a fitting tribute to General Munir’s strategic acumen and the armed forces’ professionalism.
General Munir, now Field Marshal, dedicated the honour to the people of Pakistan, the armed forces, and especially the martyrs and veterans, stating, “This is not a personal achievement but a tribute to the armed forces and the nation.”
The government also announced extensions and awards for military personnel and civilians involved in the operation. Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu will continue in his role beyond his scheduled retirement.
The Pakistan-India conflict that triggered the promotion erupted after a deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam. India blamed Pakistan, leading to rising tensions and a series of hostile moves, including visa suspensions and the closure of diplomatic channels. Full-scale military action began on May 7, with missile strikes and air raids on both sides. A ceasefire was reached on May 10 after mediation by the US.
