ISLAMABAD — May 20, 2025
In an unprecedented action highlighting Pakistan’s appreciation of exceptional command of its military, General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has been promoted to the position of Field Marshal, which is the highest in the Pakistan Army. The promotion, which was granted in an extraordinary session of the high-level federal cabinet presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is in appreciation of General Munir’s bold command of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, which was an immediate military action against India’s aggression last month.
A symbol of national unity and brilliance of strategy
The Prime Minister’s Office described General Munir as having exhibited “exemplary courage, strategic acumen, and unflinching leadership” in the recent military engagement. The cabinet reiterated that under his command, Pakistan Armed Forces thwarted an unprovoked Indian attack, defended national sovereignty, and re-established the power equilibrium of the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself congratulated the country, terming the operation and its success as “a resounding success” and “a golden chapter in Pakistan’s defense history.”
On behalf of the entire nation, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M) on his well-deserved promotion to the rank of Field Marshal. His exemplary leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos crushed enemy’s nefarious designs and brought great…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 20, 2025
President Asif Ali Zardari also gave approval to the promotion, calling it an acknowledgement of General Munir’s remarkable service in the defence of the country. In a statement released by the Presidency, he commended the military for its unison and efficacious effort that obviated the hostile intentions of the adversary.
The Battle of Truth: Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos
The operation, titled “Bunyan-um-Marsoos” (The Reinforced Fortress), was carried out as retaliation for India’s attacks on multiple Pakistani cities on May 6 and 7, 2025, that were unprovoked in nature. The attack took the lives of 53 Pakistani nationals, comprising 13 men of the armed forces and 40 civilians. Pakistan, in retaliation, carried out a well-planned counterstrike on May 10, striking multiple Indian military targets, bringing down six fighter jets (including Rafale jets) and destroying dozens of drones.
The military engagement ended following an 87-hour confrontation as an American-brokered ceasefire was reached. The operation was celebrated by Pakistan’s leadership as an effective defense of its sovereignty and proof of national readiness for combat.
Field Marshal Munir responds
In an emotionally charged statement, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir gratefully acknowledged Allah Almighty’s honor and dedicated the title to the nation, army, and most importantly to Pakistan’s Shuhada (martyrs) and Ghazis (veterans).
“This is not only an individual honour, but an honour to the resolve and sacrifice of the Pakistani nation and its military as well. Millions of Asims stand willing to guard this trust,” he said.
Field Marshal Munir also expressed gratitude to President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz, as well as to the federal cabinet for reposing trust in his command.
National Recognition and Awards Are Announced
Besides promoting Field Marshal Munir, the federal cabinet also unanimously agreed to extend Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu’s tenure, hailing his command of the air force in times of crisis. Air Chief Marshal Zaheer, leading the Pakistan Air force, gave the Indian Air force a decisive blow as an operation unfolded.
The government also made announcements of national awards to Pakistan Armed Forces personnel, martyrs, ghazis, and civilians who showed courage and service throughout the conflict. The awards were meant to recognize the unity, discipline, and strategic brilliance that characterized Pakistan’s response in its most important military engagement in recent times.
A Definitive Moment in Pakistan’s Military History
With this promotion, General Asim Munir is one of just a handful of Pakistanis to achieve the honor of five-star Field Marshal’s rank in Pakistan’s history. His command at a time of national adversity has attracted praise from both sides of political and military spectrums, consolidating his position as guardian of Pakistan’s sovereignty and national symbol of unity.