
Syeda Hoor Shumail
Without a shadow of a doubt, Pakistan Army has long been recognized for its courage and resilience – hallmarks of its identity. From rugged frontlines and high-altitude posts to complex counter-terrorism operations, its personnel – ranging from sepoys and lance naiks to captains, majors, and generals – have consistently demonstrated extraordinary grit and selflessness. According to the 2025 Global Firepower Index, Pakistan ranks 12th globally in military strength, highlighting its comprehensive capabilities across land, air, and sea domains.
One of the bravos Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, born in 1968 in Rawalpindi, has charted a remarkable military journey – one that blends intellectual rigor with battlefield leadership. Commissioned in 1986 into the 23rd Battalion of the Frontier Force Regiment, he stood out from the very beginning, earning the coveted Sword of Honour as the top cadet at the Officers Training School in Mangla.
His defining moment came on May 10, 2025 – a day that began solemnly at dawn. Then Chief of Army Staff, General Munir stood in silent Fajr prayers and recited a verse from Surah Al-Saff (61:4), invoking the spirit of Marka-e-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos, meaning “a solid structure made of molten lead.” This spiritual invocation soon echoed across the region as Pakistan launched a coordinated, multi-domain retaliatory operation in response to India’s pre-dawn missile and drone strikes on key Pakistani airbases at Nur Khan, Murid, and Shorkot on May 6-7. The Pakistani response on May 10 transformed Munir’s recitation into a rallying cry-not just a military maneuver, but a profound assertion of national unity and faith.In the early hours, Pakistan executed precision missile strikes, deployed drone swarms, and engaged in cyber warfare targeting at least 26 Indian military sites.
In its aftermath, the government declared May 16 as Youm-e-Tashakur, an annual observance to honor the Armed Forces for Marka-e-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos. The day was marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, gun salutes, religious services, awards, and tributes at national monuments.
For General Munir, the operation’s success – and its symbolic and spiritual dimensions – culminated in a historic promotion. On May 20, the federal cabinet, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, unanimously approved his elevation to Field Marshal – making him the first serving Chief of Army Staff to be awarded the five-star rank, and only the second Field Marshal in Pakistan’s history. The citation lauded his “exemplary courage,” strategic brilliance, and leadership during Marka-e-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos. In response, Munir humbly dedicated the honor to the “nation, armed forces, martyrs, and Ghazis,” calling it a “trust,” not a personal accolade.
Internationally, the swift and coordinated Pakistani response, followed by a ceasefire brokered the same day by the U.S., UK, China, and G7, framed Pakistan as a responsible nuclear power – capable of calibrated retaliation while seeking rapid de-escalation. Saudi Arabia and China praised Pakistan’s measured response, enhancing its standing in global diplomatic circles.
However, not all voices were unanimous in praise. While many celebrated Munir’s leadership, others questioned the long-term strategic impact of the operation. Some critics in the media and military circles argued that his promotion to Field Marshal came without a conventional war victory and may have been politically motivated. Concerns were raised about overlooked soldiers who had also demonstrated tireless valor but were not similarly recognized. These critics questioned whether the government’s decision reflected a deeper alliance between political and military leadership aimed at consolidating power, rather than celebrating a purely military triumph.
Currently, Field Marshal’s upcoming moves are raising concerns among political analysts and observers, who fear a shift from military leadership to political alignment. Speculation is mounting that Pakistan may be considering opening its borders to facilitate U.S. military operations against Iran. If such a move materializes, it could drag Pakistan into a dangerous regional conflict with its western neighbor – a scenario fraught with peril.
This possibility is causing unease among those who had recently celebrated Munir’s promotion and leadership during Operation Marka-e-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos. What was hailed as a moment of national pride and military strength may soon face backlash if the public perceives Munir’s actions as serving foreign interests rather than national security. Engaging in a proxy conflict could not only destabilize Pakistan’s fragile economy but also risk inflaming sectarian tensions and damaging long-standing cultural and trade ties with Iran.
The celebration of Munir as a symbol of unity and defense may quickly unravel if perceived political bias and foreign involvement define his future actions. As the region watches closely, the question remains: will Field Marshal Munir uphold the sovereignty and neutrality many expect, or will his next steps pull Pakistan into another era of conflict?