President, PM Confer 'Baton of Field Marshal' on Gen Asim Munir

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Syed Asim Munir was formally promoted to the rank of Field Marshal on Thursday during a special investiture ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr, jointly attended by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The rare five-star military promotion — Pakistan’s highest army rank — was awarded in recognition of Munir’s leadership during recent hostilities with India, particularly his role in “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” which the government described as a successful and decisive military response.

The federal cabinet approved the promotion earlier this week, citing Munir’s “exemplary strategy, courage, and leadership” in ensuring national security.

President Zardari, conferring the baton, stated the nation was proud of the armed forces for defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and integrity during unprovoked Indian aggression. He called Munir’s promotion a symbol of the country’s confidence in his command and character.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the day “historic” and praised the armed forces' leadership for “turning the tide against a larger adversary.” He also lauded other military leaders for their roles in the conflict.

Read: Imran Khan criticises Gen Asim Munir’s promotion to Field Marshal rank

“Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos” was launched in response to Indian strikes across the Line of Control. Pakistan's military said it downed six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and neutralized several drones.

The confrontation ended on May 10 after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the conflict resulted in 53 Pakistani casualties, including 13 military personnel and 40 civilians.