In a strong and symbolic message, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to respond forcefully to any act of aggression, saying the nation’s defence rests on unwavering faith and duty.
Speaking to Daily Jang during a luncheon hosted in honour of Jordan’s King Abdullah II at the President’s House, the army chief raised his finger toward the sky and remarked, “I did not lead Pakistan to victory—Allah did.”
Reflecting on the May conflict with India, Munir said it was purely through Allah’s help that Pakistan’s adversary “bit the dust.” He added, “Pakistan’s Army is Allah’s Army, and its soldiers fight in the name of Allah.”
The confrontation earlier this year saw Pakistan shoot down seven Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, after India launched overnight missile strikes on May 5 and 6, killing several civilians and security personnel. New Delhi blamed Pakistan for the attack in Pahalgam that left 28 tourists dead, but Islamabad rejected the accusation, calling it baseless.
Pakistan responded with a widespread retaliatory action—Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos—targeting more than 20 Indian military installations. The conflict ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10.
Following the war, the federal government formally elevated Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal in recognition of his wartime leadership.
Despite the tensions, Munir reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace but made it clear that any fresh provocation would be met with the same firmness displayed in May. Citing verses from the Quran, he said Allah promises victory to those who stand firm in faith, adding that Pakistan had demonstrated this truth on the battlefield.
As officials congratulated him, the field marshal urged them to pray for the country’s future and pledged to continue fulfilling his responsibilities “as commanded by Allah.”
His comments come shortly after the government confirmed that Munir’s tenure would reset following his appointment as Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). The new five-year term begins from the date the appointment was officially notified, according to the amended Army Act.
