Pakistan Elevates Army Chief Asim Munir to Field Marshal : Islamabad, Pakistan – In an uncommon development, Pakistan’s government has elevated Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of field marshal, crediting his role in guiding the military through a recent flare-up in tensions with India.
The promotion follows a four-day confrontation in early May between the nuclear-armed neighbours, during which both countries exchanged missiles and drone strikes. The escalation brought them to the brink of a fifth war before a ceasefire, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump on May 10, de-escalated tensions.
Why Was Munir Promoted?
According to a statement from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office, Munir was elevated “in recognition of his brilliant military leadership, courage, and bravery,” particularly for orchestrating Pakistan’s response to Indian attacks and ensuring the nation’s sovereignty.
Talal Chaudhry, the state interior minister, emphasized that Munir guided the army on two fronts: defending against India in the east and continuing operations against terrorism along the western border. Chaudhry remarked that Munir’s leadership played a crucial role in achieving a strong and unmistakable edge for Pakistan.
Munir responded to the announcement modestly, framing the promotion as a shared honour for both the armed forces and the people of Pakistan. “This recognition is not just for me, but for the entire nation — particularly our civil and military martyrs and veterans,” he said in a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
What Does the Rank of Field Marshal Mean?
The rank of field marshal represents the highest position in military hierarchies that follow British traditions, including those of Pakistan and India. It is an honorary lifetime rank, complete with its own insignia and ceremonial baton. Field marshals are not required to return salutes but a
In Pakistan’s history, only two individuals have held the rank: Ayub Khan and now, Asim Munir.cknowledge them with a wave of their stick. Ayub Khan and now Asim Munir are the only two to hold this rank. Ayub Khan, who assumed the role of army chief in 1951, declared himself field marshal following his takeover of power in a 1958 military coup.
How Rare Is This Rank?
Extremely rare. While the standard for army chiefs is a four-star general, the rank of field marshal is reserved for exceptional service and has largely symbolic value. Since gaining independence in 1947, Pakistan has appointed 17 army chiefs—of those, only Ayub Khan and now Asim Munir have been awarded the title of field marshal.
India has granted the title of field marshal to only two generals:
Sam Manekshaw, honoured in 1973 for his leadership in India’s victory during the 1971 war with Pakistan.
Kodandera M. Cariappa, the country’s first army chief after independence, was bestowed the rank in 1986, decades after his retirement.
What Does This Promotion Mean for Pakistan?
While the government frames Munir’s promotion as recognition of military excellence, critics warn that it may further cement the military’s grip on political power. Historically, the army has played a dominant role in Pakistan’s governance, with several military coups and deep influence over foreign and domestic policy.
Granting such a rare honour signals the government’s reliance on and endorsement of military leadership—a move that may reshape the civil-military dynamic in Pakistan for years to come.
