The war between the United States and Iran has negatively impacted much of the world. But one country has emerged with its image improved and influence enhanced: Pakistan.
For decades, when you said “Pakistan” most people thought of terrorism, political instability, and economic crisis. But today, its global image is getting a makeover. Pakistan is now a leading mediator in the Middle East.
The main driving force behind Pakistan’s image overhaul is one man: Field Marshal Asim Munir. He has become the face of Pakistan’s mediation in the Iran crisis.
Munir became Pakistan’s chief of army staff – its top military officer – in 2022. Since then, his stature and influence on the global stage have grown remarkably – and so has his grip on power in Pakistan.
Today on The Diplomat Asia, we examine the meteoric rise of Munir at home and on the global stage – and how long his de facto rule will last.
The general is riding high at present: he’s powerful in Pakistan and warmly welcomed by world leaders abroad. But Pakistan’s history is full of ambitious generals who eventually saw their dreams unravel. Could Munir meet that fate as well?
