Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, has been elevated to the rank of field marshal following federal cabinet approval, marking the first such promotion in nearly six decades.

The decision, announced after a high-level cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comes in recognition of General Munir’s exceptional leadership during the recent military conflict with India, particularly his role in the successful execution of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.

The rank of field marshal, a ceremonial five-star position, honours extraordinary service in national defence. Though symbolic, the appointment underscores General Munir’s strategic command during a critical period for Pakistan’s military and national security.

General Munir, who assumed the role of army chief in November 2022 and received a term extension last year, will continue in his current post. The Prime Minister’s Office praised the operation’s success in protecting the country’s sovereignty and acknowledged the unity and coordination displayed under Munir’s direction.

The cabinet also approved an extension of service for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, though no specific timeframe has been disclosed.