Asim Munir’s New Role Amid Military Shakeup
In a strategic pivot, Pakistan’s military has appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir to lead a newly formed crisis management cell—just months after the embarrassing defeat of Operation Sindoor. The move highlights the military’s push to regain credibility following the botched counter-terrorism offensive against TTP militants near the Afghan border.
Who Is Asim Munir?
Gen. Munir, Pakistan’s top military leader since 2022, is known for his assertive leadership and close ties to PM Shehbaz Sharif’s government. His rapid consolidation of power includes purging dissenting officers and tightening control over security policy. The new crisis role further solidifies his influence over counter-terrorism strategy.
Operation Sindoor: A Costly Failure
Earlier this year, Operation Sindoor aimed to crush TTP militants but ended in a bloody retreat, exposing intelligence gaps and tactical flaws. The debacle sparked public criticism and forced the military to rethink its approach—hence Munir’s latest appointment.
Why This Move Matters
The crisis cell is seen as a damage-control measure with three key goals:
1. Faster decision-making – Bypassing bureaucratic delays in anti-militancy ops.
2. Better inter-agency coordination – Linking ISI, Military Intelligence, and ground forces.
3. Rebuilding public trust – After Sindoor’s failure hurt the military’s image.
Political Backlash & Regional Risks
Opposition parties, especially Imran Khan’s PTI, accuse Munir of overreach, claiming the military is undermining democracy. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s Taliban regime continues sheltering TTP fighters, raising cross-border tensions. With elections nearing, Munir’s role could deepen the military’s grip on politics.
What to Watch Next
Success hinges on Munir’s ability to curb militancy without repeating Sindoor’s mistakes. Failure risks eroding the army’s authority further, while success might justify its expanding role. Regional stability—and Pakistan’s security future—hang in the balance.
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