In an unprecedented decision after India’s crushing ‘Operation Sindoor’ against terror bases in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal.
According to Geo News, the government credited Munir for ‘ensuring the country’s security and defeating the enemy through the best strategy and courageous leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos’.
The report said Munir was recognised for his ‘brilliant military leadership, bravery, and commitment to defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity’.
Munir, 57, becomes only the second Field Marshal in Pakistan’s 78-year history. The only other officer to hold the five-star rank was military ruler Ayub Khan, who promoted himself in 1959.
While Munir expressed ‘gratitude to Allah’ and dedicated the honour to the nation, the move triggered ridicule across Pakistan.
Critics noted it was the first time a general was promoted after a battlefield defeat.
Analysts alleged Munir had effectively ‘promoted himself’ following the humiliation in ‘Operation Sindoor’.
Many believe he is using this rank to strengthen his grip on power and control the national narrative.
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Experts drew parallels between Munir and Ayub Khan, noting both misjudged Indian military strength.
India’s sweeping victory in ‘Operation Sindoor’ disproved Munir’s assessments, just as the 1965 war did for Ayub.
The Shehbaz Sharif-led government also extended the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, recognising his role during the recent conflict, according to Samaa News.
Globally, India drew praise for its dominance in ‘Operation Sindoor’. Analysts said India showed its ability to strike targets deep inside Pakistan, including terror camps, drone hubs, and airbases.
Austrian historian Tom Cooper called India’s campaign a ‘clear-cut victory’. He said Pakistan’s threats of retaliation and nuclear escalation had no impact.
India escalated operations and pressed ahead, forcing Pakistan to seek a ceasefire.
Cooper noted Pakistan likely halted operations due to dwindling stocks of weapons, including attack drones.
John Spencer of the Modern War Institute said India combined restraint with decisive power.
“India struck back harder but avoided a full-scale war. That is textbook deterrence,” he said.
Spencer called ‘Operation Sindoor’ a ‘massive victory’ for India. He said India not only met but exceeded its goals in four days.
He described India’s actions as ‘decisive power, clearly applied’.
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