ISLAMABAD – In a historic move, Pakistan’s Federal Cabinet officially approved the elevation of Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal, recognizing his exemplary leadership in the aftermath of Marka-e-Haq and the successful execution of Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.
The decision comes in light of General Munir’s pivotal role in formulating and implementing strategic operations that ensured Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during a time of heightened national threat. His decisive command, intelligence coordination, and operational excellence were credited with “defeating the enemy” and restoring regional stability.
Marka-e-Haq, widely regarded as a defining moment in recent military history, along with Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, is being celebrated as a turning point that reaffirmed Pakistan’s military strength and strategic resilience.
Sources from the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the elevation was made after unanimous cabinet approval, marking the first time in decades that such a high military honor has been bestowed. The move has been welcomed across defense and political circles, with many calling it a “fitting tribute to a soldier-statesman who delivered under immense pressure.”
General Asim Munir now joins the rare ranks of Field Marshals in Pakistan’s military history — a symbolic and strategic recognition of service above and beyond the call of duty.
Field Marshal Asim Munir
Asim Munir took charge as Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff in late 2022, and stands out as a distinguished military leader with a unique blend of operational experience and deep religious roots.
His military career started at Officers Training School in Mangla, where he earned the prestigious Sword of Honour. Commissioned into the 23rd Battalion of Frontier Force Regiment, he steadily climbed the ranks through key leadership positions. Early in his career, as a brigadier, he commanded troops in the strategically important Northern Areas under General Bajwa’s command of the X Corps.
His expertise in intelligence operations is notable. He was appointed Director General of Military Intelligence, followed by a key role as Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in October 2018. His leadership skills later saw him serving as Corps Commander Gujranwala and returning to the General Headquarters as Quartermaster General.
A recipient of the Hilal-i-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest military honors, recognizing his contributions and service. He is the first army chief in Pakistan to be a ‘Hafiz-e-Quran’, having memorized the entire Quran.