Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, has been promoted to the rank of Field Marshal — the highest position in the country’s military hierarchy. According to a report by Reuters on Tuesday, May 20, the announcement was made by the office of Pakistan’s Prime Minister.
Earlier this month, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated following missile strikes, shelling, and gunfire exchanges. Shortly after these events, Munir’s promotion was approved.
State-run PTV reported that the decision was made during a cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The report stated that Munir received the promotion for his “remarkable role” during the recent conflict with India.
Although large-scale hostilities between the two countries have ceased, tensions remain high. General Munir has warned that while Pakistan seeks peace, the military will not hesitate to retaliate if the nation’s honor is threatened. On the other hand, India has stated that its “Operation Sindoor” is ongoing and any provocation will lead to further attacks on Pakistan.
Who is Asim Munir?
Asim Munir became Pakistan’s 11th Army Chief in November 2022, succeeding General Qamar Javed Bajwa. In November 2024, his tenure was extended from three to five years.
Before becoming Army Chief, Munir served as the head of Pakistan’s powerful intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). During his tenure at ISI, he played a key role during the heightened tensions in 2019 following the Pulwama attack, where 40 Indian paramilitary personnel were killed.