In Pakistan’s 77-year history, its military has often wielded more influence than its civilian governments—and today, that power still rests firmly with the country’s army chief, Gen Asim Munir.
Though martial law is a thing of the past, Munir is widely regarded as the most powerful man in Pakistan. Since becoming army chief over two years ago, he has quietly strengthened his grip—consolidating control over military ranks, influencing government decisions, and even bending the judiciary to his will, all while avoiding the public spotlight.
Now, with Pakistan and India teetering on the brink of war, Munir is at the center of a rapidly escalating crisis.
Rising Tensions
After a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir last month killed 25 Hindu tourists and a tour guide, India launched its most aggressive airstrikes on Pakistan since the 1971 war. Nine Pakistani targets were hit, with 31 people—including children—killed.
In response, Pakistan’s government granted its military full authority to plan a retaliatory strike. According to Pakistani security sources, Munir is preparing a strong and carefully timed counterattack. “When we do it, everyone will know,” one insider said. “Munir is waiting for the right moment to deliver the big blow.”
From Modest Beginnings to Military Power
Munir’s rise through the military is unusual. Unlike many top officers, he doesn’t come from an elite military family. His father was a teacher who migrated from India during partition. Munir entered the army through the Officers’ Training School rather than the more prestigious military academy. Nonetheless, he rose quickly, serving as director of military intelligence in 2016 and then as head of Pakistan’s powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in 2018.
But it was during his time at ISI that Munir clashed with then-Prime Minister Imran Khan. After allegedly briefing Khan on corruption involving his future wife, Munir was removed from his post—sparking a long-running rift with Khan.
Despite the fallout, Munir remained in senior military roles. In 2022, he was appointed army chief by then-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Political Clout and Controversy
Since taking command, Munir has orchestrated a sweeping purge of pro-Khan officers from the army and cracked down on Khan’s political party. The 2024 election, widely seen as rigged against Khan’s party, further solidified Munir’s control. With Khan imprisoned and military courts trying civilians, critics have described Munir’s leadership as ruthless.
But the recent clash with India has given Munir a chance to reframe his image—as a protector of the nation rather than a political strongman. Nationalist fervor is surging, and support for the military has spiked, with billboards showing Munir and Prime Minister Sharif declaring solidarity with the armed forces.
“His political repression has damaged his reputation,” said Aqil Shah, a South Asia expert at Georgetown University. “But a forceful military response could allow him to reclaim credibility as a strong leader standing up to India.”
A Hardliner’s Stance
Munir’s ideology mirrors that of many in the military establishment. He firmly believes in the “two-nation theory”—that Muslims and Hindus cannot coexist in one country. Recently, he declared: “Our religions, cultures, traditions, thoughts, and ambitions are all different.”
He has also taken a tough line on Pakistan’s other neighbors. In the past year, he ordered retaliatory strikes against both Iran and Afghanistan following cross-border incidents.
Retired Gen Muhammad Saeed, a former chief of general staff, described Munir as “fearless.” He added, “When he makes the plan, he will go in all guns blazing.”
Military Balance and China’s Role
While India’s army is roughly twice the size of Pakistan’s—1.2 million versus 650,000 personnel—experts say the two militaries are more evenly matched than they appear. India is currently stretched along its tense border with China and has struggled with recruitment and modernization.
“Despite its size, India can’t easily overpower Pakistan,” said Sushant Singh, a Yale lecturer and former Indian army officer. “Pakistan’s rank and file is disciplined and effective. The problem has always been its politicized senior leadership.”
Pakistan, meanwhile, continues to rely heavily on China for weapons—buying nearly 80% of its arsenal from Beijing. Last month, as tensions spiked, China reportedly rushed 100 PL-15 missiles to Pakistan. On Friday, Pakistan claimed it used those Chinese missiles to shoot down several Indian jets during Wednesday’s strikes.
“This shows China is not only supporting Pakistan but also testing its weaponry in real-time conflict,” said Shuja Nawaz, military analyst and author of Crossed Swords.
A Dangerous Game
With both nations possessing nuclear weapons, the risk of escalation has never been higher. “India and Pakistan don’t fight long wars. They fight short, sharp wars and throw everything into them,” said Nawaz. “The greatest fear is that Pakistan might use tactical nuclear weapons—and then all hell breaks loose.”
For Munir, the pressure is immense—from the public, the military, and political allies—to act boldly. But as tensions rise, his next moves could shape not only his legacy but the future of the entire region.