In a significant move on Tuesday, the federal government elevated Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir to the esteemed rank of Field Marshal. This momentous decision was made during a federal cabinet meeting that was presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Additionally, the government resolved to extend the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu as he approaches the end of his current term.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the entire Pakistani nation for the extraordinary success of Operation Bunyan-un-Mursoos, a pivotal event during the Marka-e-Haq (Battle for Truth), which successfully thwarted the sinister schemes of adversaries.
Acknowledging the masterful strategy and valiant leadership demonstrated throughout Operation Bunyan-un-Mursoos—efforts that significantly bolstered national security and delivered a crushing defeat to the enemy—the government has authorized the promotion of General Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to Field Marshal.
Reflecting on the deliberations from the cabinet meeting, it was highlighted that Pakistan has endured one of its most trying times. On the fateful nights of May 6 and 7, 2025, India initiated an unwarranted and unjustified conflict against Pakistan.
The federal cabinet vehemently denounced India’s targeting of innocent civilians, including vulnerable women and children, as well as the brazen attempts to infringe upon Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The cabinet acknowledged with great admiration that the army chief displayed remarkable courage and unwavering resolve in leading the Pakistan Army. His skillful coordination of the military’s strategic operations in wartime situations was nothing short of exemplary.
In recognition of his exceptional military leadership, bravery, and his steadfast defense of the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the cabinet unanimously approved the prime minister’s proposal to elevate him to the distinguished rank of Field Marshal.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also engaged in a significant meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari to earn his confidence regarding this monumental decision.
The cabinet expressed great admiration for the army chief, saluting his remarkable courage and firm determination in steering the Pakistan Army and adeptly orchestrating the military’s war strategy and operations.
In tribute to his exceptional military leadership, valor, and steadfast defense of the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the cabinet wholeheartedly endorsed the prime minister’s suggestion to elevate him to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also convened with President Asif Ali Zardari to ensure his approval of the decision.
Additionally, the cabinet resolved that officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces, along with civilians from diverse sectors who provided invaluable services during Operation Bunyan-un-Mursoos, will be commended with eminent state awards to honor their significant contributions.
Field Marshal Asim Munir extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire nation for their unwavering support.
As per the Pakistan Army’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Asim Munir expressed his deep thankfulness to Almighty Allah upon receiving the esteemed title of Field Marshal.
Field Marshal Asim Munir articulated that he dedicates this distinguished honor to the entire nation, the Pakistan Armed Forces — notably the civilian and military martyrs and veterans. He also extended his thanks to the president, the prime minister, and the cabinet for their steadfast trust.
According to the ISPR, Field Marshal Asim Munir asserted that this honor embodies a national trust, and even millions of Asims would be willing to sacrifice themselves to preserve it.
“This is not merely a personal accolade, but a recognition for the entire Pakistan Army and the nation,” he concluded.