Cabinet approves promotion of General Asim Munir to Field Marshal for historic war leadership
Approves continuation of services of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu after completion of his current term
The Federal Cabinet Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to the rank of Field Marshal, in recognition of his extraordinary military leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsus, which resulted in a decisive victory for Pakistan during the recent conflict with India, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who also personally congratulated the nation on the successful defence of the country and the failure of the enemy's aggressive designs during what he called the “Maarka-e-Haq.”
The cabinet acknowledged that Pakistan recently passed through one of the most difficult phases in its history. On the night of May 6 and 7, 2025, India launched an unprovoked and unjustified war, blatantly violating Pakistan’s sovereignty and targeting innocent civilians, including women and children.
In response, General Asim Munir led the Pakistan Army with exemplary courage and strategic brilliance, coordinating the armed forces with determination and unity of purpose. His leadership ensured not only a robust defence but also a historic military victory for the country.
Cabinet members credited his high-level war strategy, national defence coordination, and battlefield command as key to defeating the enemy’s objectives.
In recognition of his “brilliant military leadership, courage, and bravery,” and for safeguarding Pakistan’s territorial integrity, the Prime Minister proposed his promotion to Field Marshal — a proposal that was unanimously approved by the cabinet.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met President Asif Ali Zardari to take him into confidence regarding the decision.
In another major development, the cabinet approved the continuation of the services of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu after the completion of his current term, citing his vital role in national defence coordination during the recent conflict.
The cabinet also announced that officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces, along with ghazis, martyrs, and civilian contributors to Operation Banyan Marsus from various fields, would be awarded high civil and military honours in recognition of their services during the war.