In a historic move, the Federal Government on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to the rank of Field Marshal, making him the first Pakistani military officer to receive the prestigious five-star rank since Field Marshal Ayub Khan.
The landmark decision was taken during a special session of the Federal Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and comes in recognition of General Munir’s exceptional leadership and strategic brilliance during Operation Bunyān Mursūs—a critical military campaign launched in response to recent aggression by India.
The Prime Minister congratulated the nation on what he termed a “resounding strategic victory,” emphasizing that General Munir's "bold and historic leadership" was central to thwarting the enemy’s ambitions and ensuring Pakistan’s national security. He praised the Pakistan Army for its "swift and resolute response," which not only neutralized the threat but reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to protect its sovereignty at any cost.
On the night of May 6 and 7, 2025, Indian forces initiated an unprovoked military aggression, targeting civilian areas in Pakistan. The attack, which the Cabinet condemned as a flagrant violation of international law and Pakistan’s territorial integrity, prompted an immediate and decisive military response under General Munir’s command.
The Cabinet unanimously approved Prime Minister Sharif’s recommendation to promote General Munir to Field Marshal, highlighting the critical role he played in orchestrating a successful counteroffensive that safeguarded Pakistan’s borders and civilian population.
Following the Cabinet's decision, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with President Asif Ali Zardari to brief him on the development and to secure his confidence on the matter.
In a related development, the Federal Cabinet also approved the extension of tenure for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, acknowledging his outstanding service and contributions during the military operations.
Furthermore, the government announced that officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces, as well as civilians who contributed significantly to Operation Bunyān Mursūs, will be conferred with top state honors in recognition of their exemplary service.
General Asim Munir now becomes the second Field Marshal in Pakistan's history, joining the ranks of Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan, who held the distinction during the 1950s. The elevation marks a momentous occasion in the country’s military history, symbolizing national pride and the enduring legacy of military excellence.
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