Pakistan Promotes Army Chief Asim Munir to Field Marshal Rank

General Syed Asim Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal by the Pakistan government, becoming only the second person in the country's history to hold this five-star rank, after General Ayub Khan. This promotion, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's cabinet, was officially attributed to Munir's leadership during recent hostilities with India, despite criticism regarding the Pakistan Army's performance in Operation Sindoor and damage to its air bases. The elevation is an honorary position without additional powers but symbolizes the highest military honor in Pakistan. The promotion has been met with mixed reactions: Pakistani officials and supporters praised Munir's strategic acumen and valor, while critics questioned the timing and rationale given the military setbacks. Indian media responded with conspiracy theories accusing Munir of staging incidents to secure promotion, claims dismissed by Pakistani officials as disinformation. The move also fuels speculation about the military's influence over Pakistan's civilian government and the potential for Munir to hold his position beyond the usual retirement age.