Munir, an Unsoldierly Soldier
By Dr Kripa nautiyal
As tensions between India and Pakistan reach alarming levels following the Pahalgam incident that claimed innocent civilian lives, scrutiny has intensified on Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, whose leadership has come under increasing criticism both domestically and internationally.
Sources close to the military establishment suggest growing unease within Pakistan’s army hierarchy regarding General Munir’s approach to regional politics and internal governance. Critics point to his controversial statements, particularly during a recent address to non-resident Pakistanis, where he reportedly described Hindus and Muslims as “different civilisations”, and also in a different open address to uniformed personnel described the methods to eliminate Hindus, an act and language that many diplomatic observers have characterised as inflammatory at a time when de-escalation efforts are desperately needed.
Some experts have rightly pointed out that the current military leadership appears more focused on ideological positioning than addressing Pakistan’s critical economic challenges. This approach is increasingly concerning to Pakistan’s financial backers and allies, who have been urging restraint and diplomatic engagement.
The timing of the current crisis coincides with significant internal political challenges, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s sustained popularity despite his imprisonment. Political observers note that the military establishment, traditionally a kingmaker in Pakistani politics, faces a complex balancing act between managing international pressure, domestic discontent, and deteriorating economic conditions.
General Munir’s tenure as head of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has also come under renewed scrutiny, particularly regarding security incidents that occurred during that period, including the 2019 Pulwama attack that nearly triggered a full-scale conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
Some analysts believe that Pakistan presently finds itself at a critical crossroads, the decisions made by military leadership in the coming days will have profound implications not just for regional stability but for Pakistan’s international standing and economic future.
India’s recent targeted strikes against what it described as “terror infrastructure” have dramatically raised the stakes, with international attention now focused on how Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership respond. Several world powers have called for immediate de-escalation while expressing concern about the protection of civilians.
Financial markets have already reacted, with Pakistan’s currency experiencing volatility and international investors expressing concern about regional stability. The IMF, currently engaged with Pakistan on economic reform packages, has indicated that sustained regional tensions could impact financial assistance programmes.
Within Pakistan, public opinion appears divided. Urban centres have seen both nationalist rallies supporting a strong response and peace demonstrations calling for diplomatic solutions and leadership accountability.
As pressure mounts from all sides, questions are increasingly being raised about whether a change in military leadership approach, if not personnel, might be necessary to chart a different course. General Zahid Mahmood Mirza, who holds significant influence within the military establishment, is viewed by some observers as representing a more moderate faction within the armed forces.
It has also been articulated by some strategic experts that Pakistan’s civilian and military institutions face their greatest test in decades, the path chosen now will determine not just the immediate conflict trajectory but potentially reshape the nation’s place in the international order for years to come.
Munir has been successful in projecting himself as a Jihadist in uniform whose personal ambitions far outweigh the national responsibility. History may remember him as the biggest liability of Pakistan ever.
(The author is a graduate of the United States Naval War College and has a Masters Degree in Defence and Strategic Studies. He is a retired Additional Director General of the Indian Coast Guard.)
