Federal cabinet approves promotion of COAS Asim Munir to field marshal rank
- Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu’s service term also extended unanimously for contributions during conflict with India
In a landmark decision, the federal cabinet promoted on Tuesday Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir (NI, M) to the rank of field marshal – the highest military honour – in recognition of his “exceptional leadership” during Operation Bunyanun Marsoos, which repelled India’s “unprovoked aggression”.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a federal cabinet meeting on Tuesday, announcing pivotal decisions to honour Pakistan’s armed forces following the recent military crisis with India.
“The cabinet unanimously endorsed the prime minister’s proposal to recognise General Munir’s strategic brilliance and valiant defense of Pakistan’s sovereignty,” stated the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu’s service term was also extended unanimously for his contributions during the conflict.
Soldiers, martyrs, and civilians who served during the operation will be honoured with state awards.
The statement added that PM Shehbaz briefed President Asif Ali Zardari on the decisions, signaling cross-party unity.
In his first statement after the promotion, the newly appointed Field Marshal Gen Asim Munir dedicated the honour to Pakistan’s armed forces and martyrs.
“I dedicate this honor to the entire nation, the Armed Forces of Pakistan, and especially to our martyrs and wounded heroes—both civilian and military,” he said.
He also thanked the country’s leadership while emphasizing the collective nature of the achievement.
“This is not an individual achievement, but an honor for the entire Pakistan Armed Forces and the nation.”
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