A Forceful Voice Against Violent Extremists

Pakistan Armed Forces

Gen. Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), shall be commemorated as a leader whose foremost commitment resides in the security, stability and prosperity of Pakistan. Since his assumption of command in November 2022, Gen. Asim Munir has charted a course that has spanned from resolute military actions against extremist outfits to astute military diplomacy. 

Gen. Asim Munir graduated from the 17th Officers Training Course, Mangla, and was awarded the coveted Sword of Honour. Commissioned in the 23rd Frontier Force Regiment, he has held esteemed positions across a spectrum of operational and command assignments.

He has had the honor to serve as Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence, Director General of Military Intelligence, and Commander, Force Command Northern Areas. Before taking charge, he was performing duties of Quartermaster General at the General Headquarters. Since assuming his official duties, Gen. Asim Munir has grappled with myriad challenges, encompassing grave security threats, burgeoning extremism and the relentless onslaught of hybrid warfare. 

Gen. Asim Munir has taken decisive action against Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP) within Pakistan, known as Fitna al Khawarij. Under his leadership, through July 2024, 22,409 intelligence-based operations have been conducted against terrorists and their facilitators. They eliminated 398 terrorists, including 31 high-value targets.

Speaking to a jirga in Peshawar on August 7, 2023, the general said: “There is no option for these terrorists except to submit to the writ of the state of Pakistan before they are decimated, if they persist on their wrong path.”

He further stated: “Pakistan will spare no effort to dismantle terrorist networks and protect its citizens at all costs.”

Pakistan is also confronted with a formidable challenge in the form of fifth-generation warfare, a complex blend of conventional and unconventional tactics aimed at the implosion of societal structures. Gen. Asim Munir has expressed his resolve that the Pakistan Armed Forces, with the support of the nation, are fully prepared to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the motherland against the full spectrum of threats.

Pakistan’s sovereignty was challenged on January 16, 2024, when Iran carried out a series of missile and drone strikes within Pakistan’s Balochistan province resulting in the deaths of two innocent children. To express its resolve and redeem its stature, on January 18, Pakistan conducted a meticulously planned and precisely targeted series of military strikes based on credible intelligence against terrorist hideouts in the Sistan-o-Baluchistan province of Iran. This operation, codenamed Marg Bar Sarmachar, resulted in the elimination of several terrorists.

Gen. Asim Munir recognizes that an important way to curb extremist proclivities among youth is through employment and business opportunities. With this backdrop, the Army is assisting the government in the functioning of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the Green Pakistan Initiative (GPI) to attract foreign investment and ensure food security.

Gen. Asim Munir’s proactive efforts in forging economic partnerships, including with the Arabian Gulf states and the United States, are fostering confidence within the business community and encouraging their active participation in national progress. 

Gen. Asim Munir strongly supports greater tolerance and religious harmony. Condemning the Jaranwala incident, where a mob vandalized and torched several churches and scores of houses after two men living there were accused of desecrating the Holy Quran, he declared: “There is no space for such incidents of intolerance and extreme behavior by any segment of the society against anyone, particularly against minorities.”

When Assistant Superintendent of Police Shehrbano Naqvi saved a woman from a crowd that was hurling blasphemy charges at her, the female officer was extolled by Gen. Asim Munir for her bravery and was honored in his office.

Military diplomacy is an important facet of the COAS’s vision. In December 2023, Gen. Asim Munir visited the U.S., marking a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s expanding military and diplomatic relations with the U.S. In the midst of swiftly changing global dynamics, this visit was both symbolic and practical, with high-profile engagements that highlighted the multifaceted nature of Pakistan-U.S. relations.

Also in 2023, Pakistan conducted joint military exercises with Malaysian, Qatari, Saudi Arabian and Emirati Armed Forces. Similarly, at the closing ceremony of 7th Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) training exercise in which 15 teams, including those from the U.S., Turkiye and Saudi Arabia participated, he reiterated the significance of PATS in promoting team spirit and enhancing readiness in the face of evolving threats, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

He lauded the bond the Pakistan Army developed with other armies as a clear example of military diplomacy. Under his leadership, the Pakistan Army serves not only as the guardian of the nation’s borders but also extends its support during calamities such as floods and earthquakes. Additionally, the Army’s role in facilitating nationwide elections stands as a notable contribution to the nation.

Gen. Asim Munir’s tenure as the Chief of the Army Staff has been characterized by determined action against extremism, proactive measures to address security challenges and a commitment to fostering socioeconomic stability. 

Gen. Asim Munir’s approach to military diplomacy has not only strengthened Pakistan’s relations with key global partners but has also underscored the nation’s role in promoting regional peace and stability. As Pakistan navigates through intricate geopolitical dynamics and internal challenges, Gen. Asim Munir works to guide the Army and nation toward a future marked with professionalism, resilience, prosperity and unity.