In a surprising and controversial move, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, has been promoted to the rank of Field Marshal despite the recent humiliating defeat faced by Pakistan in Operation Sindoor—a high-impact Indian counter-terrorism operation. This decision by the Pakistani government is widely interpreted as an attempt to cover up military and strategic failures and project a narrative of strength and victory.

General Asim Munir became only the second army officer in Pakistan’s history to be elevated to the prestigious but largely symbolic rank of Field Marshal. The promotion was officially justified by the government citing Munir’s leadership during the conflict with India, specifically in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the broader operation called Marka-i-Haq.

The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement after a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stating, “The Government of Pakistan has approved the promotion of General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal for ensuring the security of the country and defeating the enemy based on the high strategy and courageous leadership during Marka-i-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.”

This promotion comes despite clear evidence of Pakistan’s military setbacks during Operation Sindoor, which exposed the country’s failure to defend its territory and airspace against precise and damaging strikes by Indian forces. The operation resulted in the destruction of key terrorist infrastructure and significant casualties among militants inside Pakistan-controlled territory.

Why Did Pakistan Promote Munir Despite Defeat?

Defense analysts believe the promotion serves more as a political maneuver than a reward for military success. Traditionally, the rank of Field Marshal in Pakistan has been awarded following decisive military victories. However, in Munir’s case, the promotion appears to be aimed at shielding him from internal dissent and challenges within the Pakistan military hierarchy. It consolidates his authority and signals that he remains the unchallenged power broker in Pakistan’s complex civil-military relations.

Historically, only one other Pakistani officer held the Field Marshal rank — Ayub Khan, who promoted himself after seizing power in a coup in 1958. Khan’s self-appointment was controversial and political in nature, much like Munir’s elevation, which also signals the intertwining of military rank with political control.

Notably, even Pakistan’s former military ruler, General Pervez Musharraf, who wielded absolute power for years, never assumed the Field Marshal rank, underscoring how rare and symbolic this elevation is. The position of Field Marshal is permanent and held for life, emphasizing Munir’s entrenched position within Pakistan’s power structure.

Political and Strategic Implications

The promotion took place just weeks after India’s Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025. This operation not only neutralized dozens of militants but also highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to Indian military capabilities.

Despite these setbacks, Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership continues to present the conflict as a “historic victory,” using state-controlled narratives and ceremonial honors, including awarding military personnel and civilians involved in the conflict. This effort to control public perception aims to maintain morale and the image of military strength domestically and internationally.

The promotion of General Munir thus symbolizes more than just military rank — it is a clear message about who holds real power in Pakistan. It strengthens the army chief’s dominance over the civilian government and signals continuity of the current military leadership’s influence amid political and strategic challenges.

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