MILITARY

COAS General Asim Munir Promoted to Field Marshal for Commanding Victory in Marka-i-Haq

Historic moment for Pakistan: COAS Gen Asim Munir promoted to Field Marshal for his exceptional leadership in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos & Marka-i-Haq. A tribute to bravery, strategy, and sacrifice.
2025-05-20
COAS General Asim Munir Promoted to Field Marshal for Commanding Victory in Marka-i-Haq

The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal, recognizing his leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the recent military confrontation with India known as Marka-i-Haq.

The cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighted General Munir’s “exemplary courage, strategic vision, and comprehensive command” in guiding the armed forces through one of the most critical military standoffs in recent years.

The confrontation was triggered by the Pahalgam attack last month, escalating on the night of May 6–7 when India conducted air strikes in Punjab and Azad Kashmir, resulting in civilian casualties. In response, Pakistan downed five Indian jets and launched targeted retaliatory strikes. The two nuclear-armed neighbors exchanged drone and airbase attacks until U.S. intervention on May 10 led to a ceasefire. Officials later confirmed that the truce has no expiry date.

Calling it a “historic victory,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) credited General Munir with safeguarding national sovereignty and defeating the enemy through high-level strategic coordination. The PMO’s statement praised his leadership as key to Pakistan’s success in Marka-i-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

The rank of field marshal is the highest in armies modeled on the British system. Previously, only General Ayub Khan had held the title in Pakistan.

President Asif Ali Zardari endorsed the decision, stating: “Under General Syed Asim Munir’s leadership, the armed forces have successfully defended the homeland. His promotion is well-deserved for effectively countering Indian aggression.”

General Munir, in a statement issued by ISPR, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him. He dedicated the honor to “the entire nation, the armed forces, and the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed for Pakistan.” Calling it a “collective honor,” he said, “This is not an individual achievement but the trust of millions of Asims who stood for this country.”

In addition to Munir’s promotion, the cabinet extended the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zahar Ahmed Babar Sidhu and announced high state honors for soldiers, war veterans, and civilians who served during the conflict.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also congratulated the COAS, lauding his “hard work, talent, and professional excellence” in earning this recognition.

This move marks a significant chapter in Pakistan's military history and serves as a tribute to those who played a vital role in defending the country during a time of heightened regional tensions.