Asim Munir Elevated To Field Marshal | Power Grab Or Strategic Move By Pakistan?

Pakistan has just promoted its Army Chief Asim Munir to Field Marshal — days after being hit by India’s Operation Sindoor. In a surprising move, the Shehbaz Sharif government announced Munir’s elevation, crediting his “courageous leadership” and “strategic victories” despite recent setbacks. This promotion makes Munir only the second person in Pakistan’s history to hold the title of Field Marshal, after Mohammad Ayub Khan—who controversially promoted himself following a military coup in 1958. The rank, borrowed from British military traditions, is mostly ceremonial but carries lifelong influence.

Asim Munir’s rise has been extraordinary. From being Pakistan’s first madrasa-educated Army Chief, to leading the infamous ISI during the Pulwama terror attack, Munir now holds unprecedented power. In 2024, he orchestrated a parliamentary move to extend his term until 2027, possibly laying the groundwork for even longer military control. This promotion has major implications for India-Pak relations and internal Pakistani politics. Known as a strategic hardliner, Munir’s elevation signals continued dominance of the military over Pakistan’s civilian government. His history with Imran Khan—whom he helped jail after a bitter fallout—proves that Munir plays the long game.

What does this mean for Shehbaz Sharif? And for India? Has Pakistan handed over unchecked power to a “Jihadi General”? Watch as we decode the timing, symbolism, and high-stakes consequences of Munir’s new rank.