ISLAMABAD/ RAWALPINDI, Tuesday, May 20, 2025 (WNP): Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal on Tuesday, following a unanimous decision by the Federal Cabinet in recognition of his exceptional leadership and strategic acumen during the recent conflict with India, codenamed Operation Bunyanum Marsoos — now widely regarded as the Marka-e-Haq (Battle of Truth).
The decision was approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who hailed the promotion as a tribute to General Munir’s pivotal role in safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and restoring regional balance.
In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Munir expressed profound gratitude to Allah Almighty for the honor and dedicated the promotion to the people of Pakistan, the armed forces, and particularly to the martyrs and veterans of the nation.
> “This honor is not mine alone. It belongs to the entire nation and the Pakistan Armed Forces — especially our civil and military martyrs and veterans,” the statement read.
He further described the rank as a “national trust,” vowing to uphold the dignity of the office with unwavering commitment. “Millions of Asim Munirs stand ready to protect this nation,” he added.
Nation’s top leadership commends historic promotion
President Asif Ali Zardari felicitated Field Marshal Munir and lauded his role in delivering a decisive response to Indian aggression earlier this month. “This promotion is a recognition of your steadfast services in the defense of the homeland,” the President said in a statement from the Aiwan-e-Sadr.
He praised the Pakistan Armed Forces for their professional and timely response, crediting Field Marshal Munir’s leadership for “crushing the enemy’s arrogance” and reaffirming the nation’s military prowess.
In addition, President Zardari congratulated Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu on the extension of his tenure and acknowledged the Pakistan Air Force’s crucial role in securing air supremacy during the operation. “Under his command, the PAF delivered a crushing blow to the Indian Air Force,” the President stated.
Prime Minister highlights strategic brilliance
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the promotion as a reflection of Field Marshal Munir’s leadership qualities, noting his instrumental role in thwarting enemy designs during the Battle of Truth.
> “Through Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, General Munir restored regional equilibrium and defended the nation’s sovereignty with courage, wisdom, and a deep sense of duty,” the Prime Minister said. “The entire nation salutes him, his brave soldiers, and the families of our martyrs.”
The Prime Minister also met with the President to formally brief him on the decision and garner consensus on the historic step.
Parliament affirms full support
Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani congratulated Field Marshal Munir, calling the promotion “a defining milestone in Pakistan’s military history.” He praised the Armed Forces for their professional handling of the recent regional tensions and affirmed that the Parliament stood united behind the military in defending the nation.
Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq echoed similar sentiments, calling the promotion a “historic reflection” of General Munir’s leadership. He praised the Armed Forces’ swift and resolute response to India’s “unprovoked and shameful aggression” and paid tribute to the sacrifices made by security personnel in the fight against terrorism.
Cabinet recognizes decisive victory
According to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Federal Cabinet acknowledged that India had launched an unprovoked war targeting civilian areas and causing casualties among innocent people. Under General Munir’s command, Pakistan responded with unity, precision, and strategic clarity, securing what the Cabinet termed as “a historic victory.”
> “His exemplary battlefield coordination and unified military strategy turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor,” the statement read.
The Cabinet also approved the extension of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu’s tenure, recognizing his significant contributions to Pakistan’s air defense.
Interior minister applauds national unity
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi congratulated Field Marshal Munir, stating that the honor was well-earned through “tireless dedication, strategic brilliance, and fearless leadership.” He emphasized the strong civilian-military unity demonstrated during the operation and noted that the nation had “stood like a wall” behind its Armed Forces.
> “The bravery and wisdom displayed by Field Marshal Asim Munir are rare in history,” Naqvi remarked, expressing confidence in the continued success of the Pakistan Army under his leadership.
National honors for war heroes
The Cabinet also announced plans to confer top national honors on military officers, soldiers, martyrs, veterans, and civilians who played key roles in the operation. These awards will recognize valor, sacrifice, and service in one of the most defining moments of Pakistan’s recent military history.
With this elevation, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir becomes a symbol of Pakistan’s military resolve, strategic depth, and unwavering commitment to national security.
