By Rana Irfan Rafi
The rank of field marshal is the highest military appointment in the Pakistan army. It is equivalent to a five-star general; however, it is more of a ceremonial degree given to officers who have provided outstanding service and leadership. The rank of field marshal is very rarely found in any part of the globe and then, mostly limited to such leaders of war or those who have made great contributions to the military of their nation. Apart from these conditions, this prestigious rank was bestowed upon only two individuals in the history of Pakistan. General Asim Munir hails from a devout Punjabi Muslim Syed family; his father, Syed Sarwer Munir Shah, was a respected educator and imam. Asim Munir memorized the Quran during his posting in Saudi Arabia, reflecting his deep religious commitment. He began his military career in 6, commissioned into the 23rd battalion of the frontier force regiment after graduating from the officers’ training school (OTS) in Mangla.
He performed so well that he was awarded the sword of honors as the best-performing cadet. In his career, General Munir held various key positions that demonstrated leadership and strategic thinking. He served in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as a lieutenant colonel under the close defense cooperation between Riyadh and Islamabad. He also served in the Siachen Glacier. As a brigadier, he served as the chief of staff of Pakistan’s I Strike Corps in Mangla and commanded an infantry brigade in the northern areas. He was promoted to the rank of major general in 2014 and served as the commander of the troops deployed in the northern areas of Pakistan. In early 2017, General Munir was appointed as the director general of military intelligence (MI), where he played a crucial role in internal security and intelligence operations. The following year, in October 2018, he became the Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s premier intelligence agency. Although his tenure as ISI chief was brief, ending in June 9, it was marked by significant intelligence operations and coordination with other security agencies.
After his stint with ISI, General Munir was appointed as the corps commander of xxx corps in Gujranwala, a position he held from 2019 to 2021. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing military operations and administrative matters in one of Pakistan’s key corps. Subsequently, he served as the quartermaster general at the General Headquarters (GHQ), managing logistics and supply chains for the army. On November 29, 2022, General Munir was appointed as the 17th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan. His appointment was significant as he became the first army chief to have previously headed both the MI and ISI, reflecting his extensive experience in intelligence and operational matters. In December 2, he was awarded the Nishan-I-Imtiaz (military), one of Pakistan’s highest military honor’s, recognizing his meritorious service.
In the aftermath of the 2025 India-Pakistan conflict, the government of Pakistan promoted General Sim Munir to the rank of field marshal, making him the second individual in Pakistan’s history to attain the rank after Ayub Khan. This promotion was approved unanimously by the federal cabinet in recognition of his leadership during operation “Bunyan-um-marsoos”, which the government credited with repelling Indian aggression and ensuring national security. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif described the military operation as a “remarkable success and commended Asim Munir’s “exemplary courage and resolve”. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Asim Munir dedicated the honors to the people of Pakistan, the armed forces, and particularly to the martyrs and veterans. Following the recent and intense conflict with India, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir experienced a substantial surge in public support, solidifying his position as the most powerful figure in the country. Recognized for his leadership during the crises, Munir received a rare promotion to Field Marshal, an honors reflecting his strategic acumen and role in defending national security.
Despite earlier domestic criticism over the crackdown on former prime minister Imran Khan and his supporters and allegations of election rigging. General Asim Munir’s image has been revitalized following the military’s response to Indian aggressions. A Gallup Pakistan poll indicated that 93% of respondents now view the military more favorably. Asim Munir, a devout Muslim and former intelligence chief, has framed the regional tension in religious terms, applying ideological contrasts with Hindu-majority India. Asim Munir’s place gets fortified; his place not only solidifies military supremacy over Pakistan’s polity but also suggests a tougher approach towards India. This may well extend beyond 2027. General Asim Munir’s path from a junior officer to field marshal showcases his dedication, strategic foresight, and steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s security and sovereignty. His career is a source of inspiration for many within the armed forces as well as the larger population. May Allah bestow General Asim Munir wisdom, strength, and guidance in serving the nation.
Author is a free-lance writer and associated with development sector
