The Militarization of Power: General Asim Munir’s Rising Influence in Pakistan's Internal and External Affairs

The India-Pakistan conflict took a renewed turn in April 2025 with a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, reigniting longstanding tensions between the two neighbours. India’s response, termed Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeted terror camps reportedly associated with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Amid these events, a prominent figure emerged at the centre of Pakistan’s response, General Asim Munir, the Chief of the Army Staff.

General Munir’s approach reflects a shift towards a more assertive and security-driven leadership. Known for his firm views on India and national security, he has increasingly taken on a decisive role in shaping Pakistan’s domestic and foreign policy responses, especially in times of crisis. His growing influence raises important questions about the civil-military balance in the country.

Military and Political Convergence in Pakistan

Pakistan has long seen an interwoven and disproportionate relationship between military leadership and political authority. In situations when there is a prevalence of political instability and economic uncertainty, the military has frequently filled a leadership void. General Munir assumed office during such a period, and his influence has only grown since.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to authorize the military to respond to recent cross-border tensions is indicative of legitimizing the authority and trust established in the army. However, it also highlights the challenges civilian governments face in asserting their authority during national crises. In practice, such advances have often strengthened military institutions beyond traditional defence roles.

Recent legislative developments under his tenure have further solidified General Munir’s position. Amendments to Pakistan’s Army Act extended the tenure of army chiefs, potentially allowing Munir to serve until 2027. Additional judicial changes such as those altering the appointment of senior judges and allowing trials of civilians in military courts, have prompted debate about the implications for civilian institutions and democratic norms.

The Kashmir Discourse: Strategic Posturing and Political Identity

Kashmir remains a deeply emotive and strategic issue for Pakistan. General Munir, echoing a longstanding national sentiment, referred to Kashmir as the country’s "jugular vein." While such rhetoric resonates with certain sections of the domestic population, it often hampers diplomatic engagement and perpetuates cycles of confrontation. India’s Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its stance, rejecting such statements and reaffirming Kashmir’s status as an integral part of the country.

These conflicting narratives demonstrate how deeply the Kashmir issue is ingrained in the national identities of both countries, which makes the process of diplomatic progress particularly difficult.

A Leadership Compared: Bajwa vs. Munir

General Munir’s leadership is often compared to that of his predecessor, General Qamar Javed Bajwa. While Bajwa pursued a more calibrated and pragmatic approach specifically in the aftermath of 2019 Pulwama Attacks and air strikes, that of Munir appears more assertive and security-centric. Former Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria aptly described the shift, where Bajwa saw gradual change as the path forward, Munir has leaned into a robust, militarized posture.

Some observers also draw parallels between General Munir and historical figures such as General Zia-ul-Haq. However, unlike Zia's overt ideological focus, Munir's methodology is regarded as more strategic and one which leverages national feeling and institutional dominance to consolidate power without explicitly politicizing religious narratives.

Economic Involvement and Civil-Military Boundaries

One of the notable initiatives under Munir’s tenure is the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), a government body led by the army to address Pakistan’s economic challenges. While designed to attract investment and resolve critical financial issues, such initiatives raise questions about the expanding role of the military in non-defence sectors. This blurring of civil-military lines is not new in Pakistan’s governance model but remains a topic of discussion among policy experts.

Munir’s previous experience as the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has also shaped his emphasis on intelligence-based counterterrorism efforts. His strategic expertise is reflected in his security policy, which places a high priority on risk elimination and preemptive actions.

Aftermath of Operation Sindoor

Following India’s airstrikes in early May, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan Al Marsoos in response. The operation, symbolically named after a Quranic reference to strength and unity, involved the use of drones and missile systems, including the indigenous Fattah-1 ballistic missile and Chinese-supported PL-15 missiles. This resulted in a substantial escalation and brought the matter to the attention of a wider international arena.

Simultaneously, Pakistan sought additional financial support to manage the economic instability, which sparked international concern over the use of such funds during times of heightened military activity.India, while refraining from voting on related resolutions, emphasized the need for financial accountability and peace-oriented usage of international aid.

The Regional and International Outlook

The response from the international community has been swift and cautious. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reached out to both Indian and Pakistani leadership, including General Munir, urging de-escalation. The United Nations, led by Secretary-General António Guterres, stressed the dangers of military confrontation between nuclear-armed nations, calling for restraint and lawful accountability.

While it is encouraging to hear worldwide calls for peace, it is equally important to note that these calls highlight the intricate geopolitical stakes involved. With heightened scrutiny on South Asia, particularly over nuclear and border issues, the global community has a vested interest in stability.

Impact on Regional Cooperation

The India-Pakistan conflict continues to impact broader regional frameworks such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The organization's effectiveness has been hindered due to bilateral tensions, and recent events further stall progress in regional integration, trade, and development.

Amid all this, India's stance remains resolute. It has affirmed that any further provocations will be addressed proportionately and in alignment with national security priorities.

Conclusion: Leadership in a Fragile Environment

General Asim Munir’s leadership marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s civil-military history. While his strategic posturing and institutional reforms may be framed as national security imperatives, they also reflect a deeper consolidation of power within the military establishment. As South Asia navigates this turbulent phase, the path forward requires thoughtful diplomacy, institutional balance, and sustained dialogue. The role of leaders whether military or civilian will be pivotal in determining whether the region moves toward peace and cooperation or continues along a path of recurring tension.