Federal Cabinite also decided to retain
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu
upon completion of his tenure
Associated Press of Pakistan
ISLAMABAD/RAWALPINDI: The Federal Government on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, recognizing his exceptional leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which resulted in a decisive victory for Pakistan and safeguarded its sovereignty.
The decision was unanimously approved during a Federal Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who praised the Armed Forces’ unified and courageous response to Indian aggression during the nights of May 6 and 7, 2025.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Cabinet described the operation as a monumental achievement in the nation’s military history. It also decided to retain Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu upon completion of his tenure, in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to Pakistan’s air defense.
Asim Munir Dedicates Field Marshal Rank to Nation and Armed Forces
Following the announcement, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir expressed his deep gratitude to Allah Almighty and dedicated the honor to the people of Pakistan and the Pakistan Armed Forces.
“This honor is not mine alone; it belongs to the entire nation and the Pakistan Armed Forces — especially our civil and military martyrs, and our veterans,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
He thanked President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the Federal Cabinet for their trust, calling the prestigious rank a “national trust.”
“Millions of Asim Munirs stand ready to uphold it,” he said, extending heartfelt thanks to the people of Pakistan. “This is not just an individual recognition but a tribute to the entire nation and its Armed Forces.”
Cabinet Recognizes Strategic Brilliance in Operation Marka-e-Haq
The Cabinet underscored that India had launched an unprovoked attack, targeting civilian populations and causing tragic loss of life. In response, General Asim Munir led the Armed Forces under a unified strategic command that turned the tide and secured a historic victory, now referred to as “Marka-e-Haq” (Battle of Truth).
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the General’s strategic foresight, military acumen, and unshakable resolve, saying the promotion reflects national pride in the leadership that ensured Pakistan’s territorial integrity.
Later, the Prime Minister met President Asif Ali Zardari at the President House to take him into confidence over the decision. The meeting was also attended by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, and Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
President Zardari hailed General Munir’s promotion, stating it was a deserving recognition for defeating Indian aggression and defending the country with distinction.
National Honors for Heroes of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos
The Cabinet also approved plans to confer top national honors on military officers, soldiers, martyrs, veterans, and civilians who played key roles during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.
PM’s Message: Pride in the Nation’s Defenders
In a separate statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Field Marshal Asim Munir, emphasizing that during the Battle of Truth, his leadership foiled the enemy’s nefarious designs.
“From the Army Chief to every soldier on the front lines, each rendered courageous service in defense of the nation,” he said.
He concluded by saying that the entire nation takes pride in General Munir, the brave martyrs, and their families for standing firm in the face of enemy aggression.
