Monitoring Desk
ISLAMABAD: The New York Times has lauded Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir, for his bold and resolute leadership during the ongoing crisis with India, triggered by a recent terrorist attack in Indian-held Kashmir.
In a detailed article, the influential U.S. newspaper noted that General Munir, traditionally known for maintaining a low public profile and operating behind the scenes, has now emerged as a central figure in shaping Pakistan’s stance in response to India’s escalating rhetoric over the Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of more than two dozen Hindu pilgrims.
“Until recently, Gen. Asim Munir preferred to stay behind the scenes… But after the deadly terrorist attack in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir, Pakistan’s army chief has stepped to the center,” the article observed.
The NYT highlighted that as public and political pressure mounts in India for a forceful response, General Munir has adopted a tone of firm deterrence. In a striking moment captured during a military exercise last week, the army chief was seen addressing troops while standing atop a tank.
“Let there be no ambiguity,” General Munir declared. “Any military misadventure by India will be met with a swift, resolute and notch-up response.”
The Times interpreted this as a clear signal that Pakistan would retaliate decisively to any Indian aggression, reaffirming its posture of credible deterrence.
The article also noted that General Munir’s recent statements reflect a more ideological and strategic worldview, suggesting that he views long-term peace with India as elusive without resolution of core disputes like Kashmir.
The rare international acknowledgment underscores the army chief’s growing role in defining national policy during moments of crisis, particularly where matters of national security and sovereignty are concerned.
