General Asim Munir, Pakistan’s current Army Chief, has been promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. He is now the second person in the country’s history to hold this title. The first was General Ayub Khan, who promoted himself to the position in 1959 during his time as a military ruler.
The title of Field Marshal is the highest rank in Pakistan’s military. It is a five-star honorary and wartime title. Reuters reported the news on Tuesday, May 20, based on a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. The decision to promote Munir came from the federal cabinet of Pakistan, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The move came after recent cross-border violence between India and Pakistan.
According to Pakistan’s national broadcaster PTV, the cabinet approved the promotion in recognition of General Munir’s exceptional role in handling tensions with India. The incident that triggered the latest conflict was a deadly attack by armed gunmen in Pahalgam, a region in Indian-controlled Kashmir. In response, both countries carried out attacks. The situation has since calmed, but tensions remain high.
General Munir responded to the promotion by saying the honor is not his alone. He said it belongs to the people of Pakistan and to the country’s armed forces. In his words, “This rank is not just a personal honor. It is a symbol of the nation’s trust and respect. I dedicate it to our martyrs, our wounded heroes, and the citizens who have given their lives for Pakistan.”
He also said the title reflects the love and belief that the nation places in its military. He added that many people like him have given everything to protect the country. His words were a tribute to all those who serve the nation with bravery and sacrifice.
The Indian army also made a statement following the tension. They said that Operation Sindoor, a military effort in Kashmir, is still active. They warned that if India is provoked again, they will strike back at targets inside Pakistan. Meanwhile, General Munir warned that while Pakistan prefers peace, it will not stay silent if attacked. He made it clear that Pakistan will protect its honor at any cost.
General Asim Munir became Pakistan’s 11th Army Chief in November 2022. He took over from General Qamar Javed Bajwa. In 2024, his term was extended from three to five years. Before becoming the Army Chief, he led the powerful spy agency ISI, the Inter-Services Intelligence. He was the head of ISI during the Pulwama attack in February 2019, when 40 Indian soldiers were killed. That event caused a major spike in tension between India and Pakistan. Munir’s leadership during that time was widely recognized.
He is known for his calm manner, sharp focus, and strong values. He has served in many top roles and is respected within the military. His promotion to Field Marshal is seen as both symbolic and strategic. It shows the growing importance of the military in Pakistan’s national affairs. It may also send a message to India and the wider region about Pakistan’s readiness and strength.
With this promotion, General Munir now stands as a symbol of the country’s military honor and commitment. His leadership is likely to shape Pakistan’s future, both in defense and diplomacy.