Field Marshal title shields Gen Munir from possible court martial

Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir's elevation on Tuesday to the rarely awarded rank of Field Marshal is being viewed as a strategic move to shield him from any internal challenge, including possible court martial, amid military setbacks in the conflict with India.

The promotion, seen as a political manoeuvre, comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor and subsequent Indian strikes on nine Pakistani air bases-blows that have dented Munir's image and raised questions about his leadership.

Observers note that Munir appears to be positioning himself in the mould of powerful figures from Pakistan's past, such as Mohammad Ali Jinnah, General Zia-ul-Haq, and General Pervez Musharraf-leaders who played central roles in shaping the country's political-military framework.

Tuesday's announcement is being seen as a pre-emptive move, likely made under Munir's own influence, to fortify his standing within Pakistan's military establishment. The five-star rank of Field Marshal is typically conferred in recognition of extraordinary battlefield success, making Munir's elevation unusual.

"Field Marshal rank is usually conferred after a military victory. This may be the first time it has been awarded after a defeat-it seems intended to mask that defeat," said Tilak Devasher, a leading Pakistan watcher.

The appointment strengthens Munir's grip on Pakistan's security architecture, at least for now, sidelining potential rivals. Analysts also point to Munir's strong religious leanings and ambitions beyond the military sphere.

Since Pakistan's creation in 1947, only one other officer-General Ayub Khan-has been promoted to Field Marshal. Munir is now the second.

He will retain his position as Army Chief despite the promotion. However, it remains unclear whether the title exempts him from retirement age limits.

Munir has repeatedly invoked religion in his rhetoric, using it to frame Pakistan's rivalry with India in the context of Partition. He has also sought international support-from Turkey, the US, and China-in his bid to internationalise the Kashmir issue. Despite economic instability and inward-looking policies, Islamabad continues to push for parity with New Delhi on the global stage.