Pakistan on Monday (August 11) has rejected India's statement on Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir's "nuclear blackmail" during his US visit, calling it "misleading" and "self-serving construct". Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry in a statement vowed a "matching response" to India's aggression.&nbsp;Responding to media queries regarding the statement made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry called India's remarks “immature and misleading”.&nbsp;This comes after Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his visit to the US, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it.In a sharp response to Munir, India's Ministry of External Affairs said that “nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistan's stock-in-trade.” The MEA said that the international community can draw its own conclusions over the irresponsible remark made by Asim Munir during his visit to the United States.Further, India stressed that Munir's statement raises doubts about the integrity of nuclear weapons and their control and stated that “the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups” in Pakistan.&nbsp;Vowing to take immediate action, Pakistan today stressed, "Any act of Indian aggression or violation of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity will be met with an immediate and matching response. The onus of any ensuing escalation will rest squarely with the Indian leadership."As opposed to Munir's remark, Pakistan added that they are a "responsible nuclear weapon state" with an elaborate command and control structure under full civilian control.Further responding to India's remarks, the Pakistan foreign ministry stated, “The Indian MEA's spurious insinuations are irresponsible and without a shred of evidence. We also note with concern a pointless reference to the third countries, in a bid to exert pressure on Pakistan.”

Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry called India's remarks "immature", saying that it is "another demonstration of their chronic tendency to distort facts and twist statements out of context."

Pakistan on Monday (August 11) has rejected India's statement on Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir's "nuclear blackmail" during his US visit, calling it "misleading" and "self-serving construct". Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry in a statement vowed a "matching response" to India's aggression. Responding to media queries regarding the statement made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry called India's remarks “immature and misleading”. This comes after Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his visit to the US, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it. In a sharp response to Munir, India's Ministry of External Affairs said that “nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistan's stock-in-trade.” The MEA said that the international community can draw its own conclusions over the irresponsible remark made by Asim Munir during his visit to the United States. Further, India stressed that Munir's statement raises doubts about the integrity of nuclear weapons and their control and stated that “the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups” in Pakistan. Vowing to take immediate action, Pakistan today stressed, "Any act of Indian aggression or violation of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity will be met with an immediate and matching response. The onus of any ensuing escalation will rest squarely with the Indian leadership." As opposed to Munir's remark, Pakistan added that they are a "responsible nuclear weapon state" with an elaborate command and control structure under full civilian control. Further responding to India's remarks, the Pakistan foreign ministry stated, “The Indian MEA's spurious insinuations are irresponsible and without a shred of evidence. We also note with concern a pointless reference to the third countries, in a bid to exert pressure on Pakistan.”

&nbsp;Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry called India's remarks "immature", saying that it is "another demonstration of their chronic tendency to distort facts and twist statements out of context."

Pakistan reacts to India's statement on Asim Munir's 'nuclear blackmail'; vows matching response to 'aggression'

Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reportedly told a private gathering in Tampa, Florida, that Pakistan would “take half the world down” if it was going down—and that Indian dams could be “finished with 10 missiles.” These lines were relayed by attendees of a closed-door dinner; there’s no public video or official transcript, but multiple outlets carried the account on 10–11 August. Treat the quotes as reported, not proven. Still, the message is clear: open nuclear brinkmanship, delivered on American soil.Why say this in the US, and why now?&nbsp;Three reasons stand out. First, timing: Munir’s remarks coincided with the US Central Command’s change-of-command ceremony in Tampa on 10 August, where Gen Michael E Kurilla handed charge to Adm Brad Cooper. The event drew senior American brass and global attention, giving Munir a big stage on the sidelines. Second, access: his visit included meetings with top US military leaders, keeping Pakistan in Washington’s line of sight during a period when Islamabad worries about fading influence. Third, audience: speaking in Florida let him rally the Pakistani diaspora and signal to US policymakers that Pakistan is still “too risky to ignore.” That’s classic “weaponising instability”—reminding the world that isolation could be costly.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed</a>&nbsp;Now to capability versus rhetoric. Pakistan is a nuclear weapons state with an estimated triple-digit arsenal and a broad missile mix—short-range systems like Nasr/Ababeel for battlefield roles and medium-range systems like Shaheen and Ghauri able to reach anywhere in India. That is real deterrent power. But the claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global. So, while the threat is frightening, it is not a realistic description of worldwide strike ability. (This is why many observers see the Tampa lines as psychological pressure, not a war plan.)What about the “10 missiles for Indian dams” line? Hitting large dams is not just a military act—it is ecological warfare with mass-casualty potential downstream on the Indus system. The point of saying it aloud is to frighten, raise crisis costs, and deter India from building leverage after New Delhi held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance post-crisis. But again, saying it in the US is the real tactic: to broadcast risk before American ears and nudge Washington to lean on India.India’s response space is broader than it was a decade ago. In July–August, Indian officials and experts have spoken more openly about the tools used in May’s crisis response—BrahMos leading precision strikes and Akashteer guarding the skies. This isn’t chest-thumping; it is quiet signalling that India has credible conventional options and an improving defensive shield. Politically too, the ruling coalition has framed Operations Sindoor/Mahadev as a “new normal” of proportionate but firm action after terror attacks, which supports continued investment in readiness.On the defensive side, India fields layered measures: long-range detection networks, quick-reaction surface-to-air systems, and high-end imports like the S-400 integrated with indigenous command-and-control (e.g., Akashteer). None of this makes India invulnerable—missile defence never offers a 100% wall—but it raises the bar for any attacker and preserves decision-time for leaders in a fast-moving crisis. The message to any “10 missiles” talk is simple: some will be shot down, and any strike invites a calibrated and punishing response.On the nuclear side, India’s doctrine remains centred on credible minimum deterrence and a strong retaliatory capability, historically paired with no-first-use language. Pakistan’s habit of speaking loosely about nuclear use to shield sub-conventional actions is meant to narrow India’s choices. But the pattern since early May shows India using precise conventional force, information discipline, and political signalling rather than rushing up the nuclear ladder. That mix preserves deterrence while denying Pakistan an easy escalatory narrative.So, what was the context in July and August that pushed Munir toward such talk? Three threads:• US stagecraft: With a CENTCOM handover in Tampa, Pakistan’s top general had a rare, concentrated American audience. Loud words travel fast in that setting.• Narrative contest post-crisis: India has been publicly detailing the professionalism and indigenous content behind its May response. That undercuts Pakistan’s old script that India will self-deter. The Tampa rhetoric tries to restore fear.• Diaspora leverage: Closed-door diaspora events are ideal for fund-raising, lobbying, and message seeding. A dramatic line—“half the world”—gets headlines back home and pressure points abroad.Where does this leave India? First, do not overreact to bluster. Treat the Tampa quotes as reported but unverified; respond to the risk, not the noise. Second, keep strengthening the conventional edge—more standoff precision, better air defence coverage, faster decision loops. Third, continue clear political signalling: India will hit back proportionately after terrorism—without taking the bait of reckless rhetoric. Recent government and industry messaging in August shows exactly that balance.Finally, a word on American optics. The US military just shifted CENTCOM leadership, and Washington’s bandwidth is divided across theatres. Munir’s aim in Tampa was to force attention—by linking Pakistan’s fate to global catastrophe. The better answer—for India, the US, and the region—is to refuse nuclear blackmail as a diplomatic tool, maintain channels for crisis management, and keep building India’s credible, layered deterrence so that threats about “half the world” stay where they belong: in the realm of desperate talk, not doable action. &nbsp;

Asim Munir's claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global

Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reportedly told a private gathering in Tampa, Florida, that Pakistan would “take half the world down” if it was going down—and that Indian dams could be “finished with 10 missiles.” These lines were relayed by attendees of a closed-door dinner; there’s no public video or official transcript, but multiple outlets carried the account on 10–11 August. Treat the quotes as reported, not proven. Still, the message is clear: open nuclear brinkmanship, delivered on American soil. Why say this in the US, and why now? Three reasons stand out. First, timing: Munir’s remarks coincided with the US Central Command’s change-of-command ceremony in Tampa on 10 August, where Gen Michael E Kurilla handed charge to Adm Brad Cooper. The event drew senior American brass and global attention, giving Munir a big stage on the sidelines. Second, access: his visit included meetings with top US military leaders, keeping Pakistan in Washington’s line of sight during a period when Islamabad worries about fading influence. Third, audience: speaking in Florida let him rally the Pakistani diaspora and signal to US policymakers that Pakistan is still “too risky to ignore.” That’s classic “weaponising instability”—reminding the world that isolation could be costly. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-s-second-u-s-visit-after-june-1754881143466/embed Now to capability versus rhetoric. Pakistan is a nuclear weapons state with an estimated triple-digit arsenal and a broad missile mix—short-range systems like Nasr/Ababeel for battlefield roles and medium-range systems like Shaheen and Ghauri able to reach anywhere in India. That is real deterrent power. But the claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global. So, while the threat is frightening, it is not a realistic description of worldwide strike ability. (This is why many observers see the Tampa lines as psychological pressure, not a war plan.) What about the “10 missiles for Indian dams” line? Hitting large dams is not just a military act—it is ecological warfare with mass-casualty potential downstream on the Indus system. The point of saying it aloud is to frighten, raise crisis costs, and deter India from building leverage after New Delhi held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance post-crisis. But again, saying it in the US is the real tactic: to broadcast risk before American ears and nudge Washington to lean on India. India’s response space is broader than it was a decade ago. In July–August, Indian officials and experts have spoken more openly about the tools used in May’s crisis response—BrahMos leading precision strikes and Akashteer guarding the skies. This isn’t chest-thumping; it is quiet signalling that India has credible conventional options and an improving defensive shield. Politically too, the ruling coalition has framed Operations Sindoor/Mahadev as a “new normal” of proportionate but firm action after terror attacks, which supports continued investment in readiness. On the defensive side, India fields layered measures: long-range detection networks, quick-reaction surface-to-air systems, and high-end imports like the S-400 integrated with indigenous command-and-control (e.g., Akashteer). None of this makes India invulnerable—missile defence never offers a 100% wall—but it raises the bar for any attacker and preserves decision-time for leaders in a fast-moving crisis. The message to any “10 missiles” talk is simple: some will be shot down, and any strike invites a calibrated and punishing response. On the nuclear side, India’s doctrine remains centred on credible minimum deterrence and a strong retaliatory capability, historically paired with no-first-use language. Pakistan’s habit of speaking loosely about nuclear use to shield sub-conventional actions is meant to narrow India’s choices. But the pattern since early May shows India using precise conventional force, information discipline, and political signalling rather than rushing up the nuclear ladder. That mix preserves deterrence while denying Pakistan an easy escalatory narrative. So, what was the context in July and August that pushed Munir toward such talk? Three threads: • US stagecraft: With a CENTCOM handover in Tampa, Pakistan’s top general had a rare, concentrated American audience. Loud words travel fast in that setting. • Narrative contest post-crisis: India has been publicly detailing the professionalism and indigenous content behind its May response. That undercuts Pakistan’s old script that India will self-deter. The Tampa rhetoric tries to restore fear. • Diaspora leverage: Closed-door diaspora events are ideal for fund-raising, lobbying, and message seeding. A dramatic line—“half the world”—gets headlines back home and pressure points abroad. Where does this leave India? First, do not overreact to bluster. Treat the Tampa quotes as reported but unverified; respond to the risk, not the noise. Second, keep strengthening the conventional edge—more standoff precision, better air defence coverage, faster decision loops. Third, continue clear political signalling: India will hit back proportionately after terrorism—without taking the bait of reckless rhetoric. Recent government and industry messaging in August shows exactly that balance. Finally, a word on American optics. The US military just shifted CENTCOM leadership, and Washington’s bandwidth is divided across theatres. Munir’s aim in Tampa was to force attention—by linking Pakistan’s fate to global catastrophe. The better answer—for India, the US, and the region—is to refuse nuclear blackmail as a diplomatic tool, maintain channels for crisis management, and keep building India’s credible, layered deterrence so that threats about “half the world” stay where they belong: in the realm of desperate talk, not doable action.

Asim Munir's claim of “taking down half the world” is theatre. Pakistan has no publicly known intercontinental-range system in service; its credible reach is regional, not global

A Theatre of Fear: Why Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's 'Half the World' gambit finds an unimpressed audience in India.

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) slammed India over New Delhi's decision to put the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance, claiming that the move can potentially lead to the starvation of 250 million people. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River. Munir, who's on a US visit, also warned that Pakistan had no dearth of missiles and would obliterate any dams India decides to build on the river. He even made a nuclear threat against India and the world, saying, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-s-army-chief-makes-nuclear-threat-against-india-and-world-says-if-we-go-down-we-ll-take-half-the-world-down-with-us-1754874504447">"if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us".</a><h2>Munir threatens India</h2>Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, Munir said Pakistan was a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Raking up the Indus Water Treaty issue, Munir slammed India and claimed that the suspension of the treaty could place 250 million people at risk of starvation. Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India had put the years-old treaty in abeyance, i.e., it has been temporarily suspended, not formally terminated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed</a>&nbsp;He announced that Pakistan "will wait for India to build a dam, and when it does so, 10 missiles se faarigh kar denge (we will destroy it with 10 missiles)". Munir insisted that Pakistan has "no shortage of missiles" and would destroy Indian dams if built. "The Indus River is not the Indians' family property. Humein missilon ki kami nahi hai, al-Hamdulillah (we don't have a missile shortage, Praise be to God)," he said reportedly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Munir's India tirade</h2>&nbsp;According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner. Recounting the Pakistani army chief's comments, later attendees said he made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant.&nbsp;"We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that “India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?”&nbsp;

Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir has threatened to destroy any future Indian dams on the Indus River and warned of nuclear retaliation, claiming India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could starve 250 million people. He claimed Pakistan had “no shortage of missiles.”

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) slammed India over New Delhi's decision to put the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance, claiming that the move can potentially lead to the starvation of 250 million people. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River. Munir, who's on a US visit, also warned that Pakistan had no dearth of missiles and would obliterate any dams India decides to build on the river. He even made a nuclear threat against India and the world, saying, "if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us". Munir threatens India Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, Munir said Pakistan was a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation. Raking up the Indus Water Treaty issue, Munir slammed India and claimed that the suspension of the treaty could place 250 million people at risk of starvation. Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India had put the years-old treaty in abeyance, i.e., it has been temporarily suspended, not formally terminated. Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed He announced that Pakistan "will wait for India to build a dam, and when it does so, 10 missiles se faarigh kar denge (we will destroy it with 10 missiles)". Munir insisted that Pakistan has "no shortage of missiles" and would destroy Indian dams if built. "The Indus River is not the Indians' family property. Humein missilon ki kami nahi hai, al-Hamdulillah (we don't have a missile shortage, Praise be to God)," he said reportedly. Munir's India tirade According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner. Recounting the Pakistani army chief's comments, later attendees said he made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant. "We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that “India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?”

Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir has threatened to destroy any future Indian dams on the Indus River and warned of nuclear retaliation, claiming India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could starve 250 million people. He claimed Pakistan had “no shortage of missiles.”

'No shortage of missiles': Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir threatens India over Indus waters, vows to obliterate any dam New Delhi builds

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his ongoing visit to the United States, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it. Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, Munir said Pakistan is a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan will take down "half the world"</h2>Munir, as quoted by ThePrint, noted that Pakistan was a nuclear nation and said, "if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us".&nbsp;Speaking at the dinner he hosted for Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, he also raked up the Indus Water Treaty issue. According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner, and the Pakistani army chief's comments were later recounted by attendees.&nbsp;Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed</a><h2>Munir's India tirade</h2>&nbsp;The Pakistani army chief, as per the report, made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant.&nbsp;"We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that "India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?"&nbsp;The army chief also poked at India's recent trade disputes with the US and joked about Pakistan's diplomatic balancing skills, even saying his country nominated Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize. "The real reason for our success is that we are not misers. If someone does good work, we praise and appreciate them. That is why we nominated President Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize," he said.&nbsp;Munir was in Tampa for the change of command at US Central Command, meeting with US military leaders, including Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine. This was Munir’s second trip to the US since clashes with India in Operation Sindoor. His visit included a private lunch with Trump, after which the two announced expanded cooperation, including an oil deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, during a US visit, threatened nuclear retaliation against India, saying his country will “take half the world down.” He also vowed to destroy future Indian dams on the Indus while making multiple provocative remarks about India.

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his ongoing visit to the United States, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it. Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, Munir said Pakistan is a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation. Pakistan will take down "half the world" Munir, as quoted by ThePrint, noted that Pakistan was a nuclear nation and said, "if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us". Speaking at the dinner he hosted for Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, he also raked up the Indus Water Treaty issue. According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner, and the Pakistani army chief's comments were later recounted by attendees. Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed Munir's India tirade The Pakistani army chief, as per the report, made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant. "We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that "India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?" The army chief also poked at India's recent trade disputes with the US and joked about Pakistan's diplomatic balancing skills, even saying his country nominated Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize. "The real reason for our success is that we are not misers. If someone does good work, we praise and appreciate them. That is why we nominated President Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize," he said. Munir was in Tampa for the change of command at US Central Command, meeting with US military leaders, including Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine. This was Munir’s second trip to the US since clashes with India in Operation Sindoor. His visit included a private lunch with Trump, after which the two announced expanded cooperation, including an oil deal.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, during a US visit, threatened nuclear retaliation against India, saying his country will “take half the world down.” He also vowed to destroy future Indian dams on the Indus while making multiple provocative remarks about India.

Pakistan army chief makes nuclear threat against India and world, says 'if we go down, we'll take half the world down with us'

In a big update, the Pakistan Army has denied the rumours that Army chief Asim Munir will be the next president of the country. The Pakistan Army in a statement called the rumours as “baseless.” The army's response came following a wave of disinformation on social media during the previous weeks that Munir plans to replace President Asif Ali Zardari. Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, in an interview, made it clear that the army chief has no interest in the presidency. Earlier in May, Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal making him the second military official to hold the rank in the country's history. This promotion came after heightened tensions with India post Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;Speaking to The Economist, Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said that Munir has no interest in the presidency and no such proposal is under consideration, the state-run PTV posted on social media on Wednesday. "Talks about Field Marshal Asim Munir becoming the president of Pakistan are completely baseless," he said. Earlier on July 10, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi rejected rumours regarding the possible ouster of President Zardari and termed it a “malicious campaign.” He said that President Zardari “enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces.” Naqvi stressed that Munir's "sole focus" was Pakistan's strength and stability, and "nothing else."&nbsp;Meanwhile, Munir is expected in the US this week for consultations with his American counterparts, as per a Dawn report. This comes days after General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), visited Pakistan in late July. During the visit, Gen Kurilla was also conferred the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Milit­ary) by the Pakistani government. Munir had also visited Washin­gton in June, when he was hosted by United States President Don­ald Trump for lunch at the White House. It was soon after this meeting that Pakistan nominated Trump for the Nobel Prize.

Pakistan Army denied rumours that its Chief Asim Munir will be made the president of the country. The Army says Munir is focused solely on national stability. Recently promoted to Field Marshal, Munir is set to visit the US for talks. 

In a big update, the Pakistan Army has denied the rumours that Army chief Asim Munir will be the next president of the country. The Pakistan Army in a statement called the rumours as “baseless.” The army's response came following a wave of disinformation on social media during the previous weeks that Munir plans to replace President Asif Ali Zardari. Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, in an interview, made it clear that the army chief has no interest in the presidency. Earlier in May, Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal making him the second military official to hold the rank in the country's history. This promotion came after heightened tensions with India post Operation Sindoor. Speaking to The Economist, Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said that Munir has no interest in the presidency and no such proposal is under consideration, the state-run PTV posted on social media on Wednesday. "Talks about Field Marshal Asim Munir becoming the president of Pakistan are completely baseless," he said. Earlier on July 10, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi rejected rumours regarding the possible ouster of President Zardari and termed it a “malicious campaign.” He said that President Zardari “enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces.” Naqvi stressed that Munir's "sole focus" was Pakistan's strength and stability, and "nothing else." Meanwhile, Munir is expected in the US this week for consultations with his American counterparts, as per a Dawn report. This comes days after General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), visited Pakistan in late July. During the visit, Gen Kurilla was also conferred the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) by the Pakistani government. Munir had also visited Washington in June, when he was hosted by United States President Donald Trump for lunch at the White House. It was soon after this meeting that Pakistan nominated Trump for the Nobel Prize.

Pakistan Army denied rumours that its Chief Asim Munir will be made the president of the country. The Army says Munir is focused solely on national stability. Recently promoted to Field Marshal, Munir is set to visit the US for talks.&nbsp;

Asim Munir to become president? Pakistan Army gives BIG update as top general heads to US again

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch has issued a warning to the United States President Donald Trump in an open letter, telling him that he had been “gravely misled” about the “massive oil reserves” in Pakistan by General Asim Munir and Islamabad’s diplomatic channels. The reserves of oil, natural gas, copper, lithium, uranium, and rare earth minerals are not located in Pakistan and belong to the “Republic of Balochistan”, he wrote. “Your recognition of the vast oil and mineral reserves in the region is indeed accurate. However, with due respect, it is imperative to inform your administration that you have been gravely misled by the Pakistani military leadership, particularly General Asim Munir, and by their diplomatic channels regarding the true geography and ownership of these critical resources,” he said.&nbsp;“These untapped reserves of oil, natural gas, copper, lithium, uranium, and rare earth minerals are not located within the territories of Punjab, which is the actual Pakistan. They belong to the Republic of Balochistan, a historically sovereign nation currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan. The claim that these resources belong to Pakistan is not only false, it is a deliberate attempt to misappropriate Balochistan’s wealth for political and financial gain,” Baloch added.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Don't let Pak’s military, rogue ISI exploit reserves’</h2>&nbsp;He further added that allowing Pakistan’s radicalised military and rogue ISI, known for sponsoring Al-Qaeda and various proxy groups responsible for the deaths of thousands of US soldiers in Afghanistan, to exploit Balochistan’s trillion-dollar reserves of rare earth minerals would be a grave strategic mistake.&nbsp;“Such access would significantly enhance the operational and financial capabilities of the ISI, enabling it to expand its global terror networks, recruit more militants, and potentially facilitate large-scale attacks reminiscent of 9/11,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Balochistan is not for sale’</h2>&nbsp;The Baloch leader said Balochistan is not for sale. “We will not permit Pakistan, China, or any other foreign power to exploit our land or its resources without the explicit consent of the Baloch people. Our sovereignty is non-negotiable, and our struggle for rightful ownership and independence continues with dignity and resilience,” he wrote in his open letter to Trump.&nbsp;Trump had announced a major deal with Pakistan in which Pakistan and the US will work together on developing “their massive oil reserves”.&nbsp;“We are in the process of choosing the Oil Company that will lead this Partnership,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. Cnergyico, Pakistan’s biggest refinery, claimed to have finalised a deal with Vitol to import 1 million barrels of American oil, the company’s vice chairman, Usama Qureshi, told Reuters.&nbsp;

The Baloch leader said in the letter that Balochistan is not for sale and that the Baloch people will not permit Pakistan, China, or any other foreign power to exploit their land or its resources without explicit consent. 

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch has issued a warning to the United States President Donald Trump in an open letter, telling him that he had been “gravely misled” about the “massive oil reserves” in Pakistan by General Asim Munir and Islamabad’s diplomatic channels. The reserves of oil, natural gas, copper, lithium, uranium, and rare earth minerals are not located in Pakistan and belong to the “Republic of Balochistan”, he wrote. “Your recognition of the vast oil and mineral reserves in the region is indeed accurate. However, with due respect, it is imperative to inform your administration that you have been gravely misled by the Pakistani military leadership, particularly General Asim Munir, and by their diplomatic channels regarding the true geography and ownership of these critical resources,” he said. “These untapped reserves of oil, natural gas, copper, lithium, uranium, and rare earth minerals are not located within the territories of Punjab, which is the actual Pakistan. They belong to the Republic of Balochistan, a historically sovereign nation currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan. The claim that these resources belong to Pakistan is not only false, it is a deliberate attempt to misappropriate Balochistan’s wealth for political and financial gain,” Baloch added. ‘Don't let Pak’s military, rogue ISI exploit reserves’ He further added that allowing Pakistan’s radicalised military and rogue ISI, known for sponsoring Al-Qaeda and various proxy groups responsible for the deaths of thousands of US soldiers in Afghanistan, to exploit Balochistan’s trillion-dollar reserves of rare earth minerals would be a grave strategic mistake. “Such access would significantly enhance the operational and financial capabilities of the ISI, enabling it to expand its global terror networks, recruit more militants, and potentially facilitate large-scale attacks reminiscent of 9/11,” he added. ‘Balochistan is not for sale’ The Baloch leader said Balochistan is not for sale. “We will not permit Pakistan, China, or any other foreign power to exploit our land or its resources without the explicit consent of the Baloch people. Our sovereignty is non-negotiable, and our struggle for rightful ownership and independence continues with dignity and resilience,” he wrote in his open letter to Trump. Trump had announced a major deal with Pakistan in which Pakistan and the US will work together on developing “their massive oil reserves”. “We are in the process of choosing the Oil Company that will lead this Partnership,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. Cnergyico, Pakistan’s biggest refinery, claimed to have finalised a deal with Vitol to import 1 million barrels of American oil, the company’s vice chairman, Usama Qureshi, told Reuters.

The Baloch leader said in the letter that Balochistan is not for sale and that the Baloch people will not permit Pakistan, China, or any other foreign power to exploit their land or its resources without explicit consent.&nbsp;

‘No oil reserves in Pakistan, you have been gravely misled by Munir’: Baloch leader writes to Trump

Amid a raging debate in India about the China-Pakistan nexus during&nbsp;Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, said on Friday that the bond between the two nations is&nbsp;"unique, time-tested and exceptionally resilient" despite global challenges. Asim&nbsp;Munir was addressing&nbsp;a ceremony to commemorate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China in Rawalpindi, in the presence&nbsp;of China's Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong.&nbsp;The event was also attended by&nbsp;Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, Pakistani military officials, and officers of China's embassy. "Our friendship with China is unique, time-tested, and exceptionally resilient,” the military's media wing said in a statement.&nbsp;Asim Munir further said that the strategic relationship between the two nations "exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support and shared commitment".&nbsp;He said that the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unshakable despite the shifting strategic dynamics.&nbsp;"Our enduring partnership is central to promoting regional stability and securing our shared strategic interests,” Munir added, according to a PTI report.&nbsp;Asim Munir said that China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) played a pivotal role in the country's defence, security, and nation-building.&nbsp;Earlier this week, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in the parliament that the central government allowed Pakistan and China to come close during Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar later launched a veiled attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, calling him a China guru who acquired their knowledge of China by attending the Beijing Olympics.&nbsp;China had helped Pakistan by providing weapons and helping in surveillance during the latter's four-day-long conflict with India.

Amid a raging debate in India about the China-Pakistan nexus during Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, said on Friday that the bond between the two nations is "unique, time-tested and exceptionally resilient" despite global challenges. 

Amid a raging debate in India about the China-Pakistan nexus during Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, said on Friday that the bond between the two nations is "unique, time-tested and exceptionally resilient" despite global challenges. Asim Munir was addressing a ceremony to commemorate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China in Rawalpindi, in the presence of China's Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong. The event was also attended by Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, Pakistani military officials, and officers of China's embassy. "Our friendship with China is unique, time-tested, and exceptionally resilient,” the military's media wing said in a statement. Asim Munir further said that the strategic relationship between the two nations "exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support and shared commitment". He said that the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unshakable despite the shifting strategic dynamics. "Our enduring partnership is central to promoting regional stability and securing our shared strategic interests,” Munir added, according to a PTI report. Asim Munir said that China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) played a pivotal role in the country's defence, security, and nation-building. Earlier this week, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in the parliament that the central government allowed Pakistan and China to come close during Operation Sindoor. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar later launched a veiled attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, calling him a China guru who acquired their knowledge of China by attending the Beijing Olympics. China had helped Pakistan by providing weapons and helping in surveillance during the latter's four-day-long conflict with India.

The event was also attended by&nbsp;Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, Pakistani military officials, and officers of China's embassy.

Amid China-Pakistan nexus debate in India, Asim Munir's big remark on Beijing. Here's what he said

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday compared Congress MP Rahul Gandhi with Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, claiming the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha peddles&nbsp;India's estranged neighbour's narrative more consistently than the general himself. The party claimed Rahul Gandhi is doubtful about India's victory in Operation Sindoor against Islamabad.&nbsp;"Rahul Gandhi doubts the victory of our forces in Operation Sindoor! Pakistan should thank Rahul Gandhi for being more consistent in peddling the Pakistani narrative than Asim Munir!" BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari wrote on X.&nbsp;Pradeep Bhandari was reacting to Rahul Gandhi's scepticism over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements regarding Operation Sindoor. He accused the government of ruining India's foreign policy and claimed no foreign partners supported New Delhi.&nbsp;The Congress MP also referred to Donald Trump's oft-repeated claim that it was the US that brokered a peace understanding between India and Pakistan, claiming something was "fishy".&nbsp;"They have said that there will be discussions on Operation Sindoor after the PM returns. There will be a discussion...But there are ongoing statements by PM Modi. On one hand, he claims Operation Sindoor is still ongoing, but on the other hand, he states that we have achieved victory. Trump, on the other hand, is saying he was the one who brokered peace and paused Operation Sindoor. He has said it 25 times. Kuch n kuch to dal mein kaala hai (Something is fishy) ... They have ruined our foreign policy. No one supported us," he told reporters.&nbsp;He also accused PM Modi of being silent on Donald Trump's ceasefire claims.&nbsp;"How can the Prime Minister give a statement? Kya bolenge PM, ki Trump ne karwaya hai? (What will he say? That Trump has announced it? He can't say it, but it is the truth. The entire world knows that Trump has announced a ceasefire. We can't hide from reality," Gandhi told reporters.&nbsp;India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in May, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir, mostly tourists. The ceasefire understanding was achieved after the four-day-long conflict, hours after New Delhi attacked Pakistani air bases deep inside the country.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday compared Congress MP Rahul Gandhi with Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, claiming the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha peddles India's estranged neighbour's narrative more consistently than the general himself. 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday compared Congress MP Rahul Gandhi with Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, claiming the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha peddles India's estranged neighbour's narrative more consistently than the general himself. The party claimed Rahul Gandhi is doubtful about India's victory in Operation Sindoor against Islamabad. "Rahul Gandhi doubts the victory of our forces in Operation Sindoor! Pakistan should thank Rahul Gandhi for being more consistent in peddling the Pakistani narrative than Asim Munir!" BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari wrote on X. Pradeep Bhandari was reacting to Rahul Gandhi's scepticism over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements regarding Operation Sindoor. He accused the government of ruining India's foreign policy and claimed no foreign partners supported New Delhi. The Congress MP also referred to Donald Trump's oft-repeated claim that it was the US that brokered a peace understanding between India and Pakistan, claiming something was "fishy". "They have said that there will be discussions on Operation Sindoor after the PM returns. There will be a discussion...But there are ongoing statements by PM Modi. On one hand, he claims Operation Sindoor is still ongoing, but on the other hand, he states that we have achieved victory. Trump, on the other hand, is saying he was the one who brokered peace and paused Operation Sindoor. He has said it 25 times. Kuch n kuch to dal mein kaala hai (Something is fishy) ... They have ruined our foreign policy. No one supported us," he told reporters. He also accused PM Modi of being silent on Donald Trump's ceasefire claims. "How can the Prime Minister give a statement? Kya bolenge PM, ki Trump ne karwaya hai? (What will he say? That Trump has announced it? He can't say it, but it is the truth. The entire world knows that Trump has announced a ceasefire. We can't hide from reality," Gandhi told reporters. India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in May, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir, mostly tourists. The ceasefire understanding was achieved after the four-day-long conflict, hours after New Delhi attacked Pakistani air bases deep inside the country.

Operation Sindoor: The BJP was reacting to Rahul Gandhi's scepticism over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements.

BJP compares Rahul Gandhi with Pakistan's Asim Munir: 'Peddling narrative of...'

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday (July 16) warned his party members to hold Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir accountable if anything happens to him in prison. Khan has been incarcerated for almost two years after being charged in multiple cases. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder said that he and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were facing inhumane treatment in jail, Khan wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;"Even the television in her cell has been turned off. All basic human and legal rights have been suspended for both of us," he wrote. Imran Khan further claimed that a jail superintendent and a colonel were acting “on the orders of Asim Munir.”&nbsp;The former prime minister asked his party members to hold Asim Munir responsible if anything happens to him in jail. He said that he is being treated worse than convicted terrorists, while claiming that a military officer serving a sentence for murder was enjoying VIP treatment in jail.&nbsp;“Meanwhile, I am subjected to relentless abuse. But no matter what they do, I have never bowed before oppression, and I never will," he wrote.&nbsp;"I give clear instructions to my party — if anything happens to me in jail, Asim Munir must be held accountable," he said, adding, "I am ready to spend my life in jail, but I will never bow to tyranny.”<h2>A personal grudge?</h2>Imran Khan further explained how Bushra Bibi came into the picture and why Munir will be held responsible. He repeated a past claim that Pakistan's army chief's actions began due to a "personal grudge".&nbsp;He said that Munir tried to send a message to Bushra Bibi through PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari while being removed as ISIS chief during Khan's tenure. "She firmly refused to meet. Since then, the targeting of Bushra Bibi has been a way to emotionally break me,” he added.&nbsp;Khan further urged his party members to unite, keeping personal differences aside. "I urge every party member to set aside personal differences and join the protest. Retweet my messages and amplify my voice,” he said.

Imran Khan on Wednesday told his party members to hold Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir responsible if anything happens to him in the jail. In a post on X, former Pak PM claimed that a jail superintendent and a colonel were acting “on the orders of Asim Munir", giving them inhumane treatment.

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday (July 16) warned his party members to hold Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir accountable if anything happens to him in prison. Khan has been incarcerated for almost two years after being charged in multiple cases. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder said that he and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were facing inhumane treatment in jail, Khan wrote in a post on X. "Even the television in her cell has been turned off. All basic human and legal rights have been suspended for both of us," he wrote. Imran Khan further claimed that a jail superintendent and a colonel were acting “on the orders of Asim Munir.” The former prime minister asked his party members to hold Asim Munir responsible if anything happens to him in jail. He said that he is being treated worse than convicted terrorists, while claiming that a military officer serving a sentence for murder was enjoying VIP treatment in jail. “Meanwhile, I am subjected to relentless abuse. But no matter what they do, I have never bowed before oppression, and I never will," he wrote. "I give clear instructions to my party — if anything happens to me in jail, Asim Munir must be held accountable," he said, adding, "I am ready to spend my life in jail, but I will never bow to tyranny.” A personal grudge? Imran Khan further explained how Bushra Bibi came into the picture and why Munir will be held responsible. He repeated a past claim that Pakistan's army chief's actions began due to a "personal grudge". He said that Munir tried to send a message to Bushra Bibi through PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari while being removed as ISIS chief during Khan's tenure. "She firmly refused to meet. Since then, the targeting of Bushra Bibi has been a way to emotionally break me,” he added. Khan further urged his party members to unite, keeping personal differences aside. "I urge every party member to set aside personal differences and join the protest. Retweet my messages and amplify my voice,” he said.

Imran Khan on Wednesday told his party members to hold Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir responsible if anything happens to him in the jail. In a post on X, former Pak PM claimed that a jail superintendent and a colonel were acting “on the orders of Asim Munir", giving them inhumane treatment.

'Inhumane treatment, no basic rights': Former Pak PM Imran Khan says Asim Munir should be blamed if anything happens to him

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday (Jul 11) firmly rejected reports suggesting that the nation's President Asif Ali Zardari may step down and that Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir wanted to become president in his stead. Speaking to the media, Sharif said that the reports were nothing but baseless propaganda and said that Munir has "never shown interest in the presidency". He insisted that the president and the army chief work in tandem with mutual trust, and that no shuffle in their roles was imminent.<h2>What did Sharif say about Asif Munir's alleged presidential bid?</h2>Calling the reports a baseless, malicious propaganda campaign, the Pakistani Sharif dismissed rumours of discord and said that "Field Marshal Asim Munir has never shown interest in the presidency." He also insisted that there was no "plan under discussion" regarding Asif Ali Zardari stepping down or Munir taking over. He stressed that he, Zardari and Munir work with mutual trust and that the relationship they share was based on mutual trust and respect and a shared vision for a better and stronger Pakistan.His statement follows a similar statement by Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. On his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Pakistani interior minister alleged that there was a deliberate attempt to target President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz, and Army Chief Munir. He claimed that they "know exactly who is spreading this false narrative" and insisted that "There has been no conversation, no plan, and no such idea that President Zardari will resign or that the COAS wants to become President".Accusing foreign hostile elements of promoting the so-called smear campaign, he said, "Those behind this disinformation may continue working with foreign agencies, but we will do whatever is needed to make Pakistan stronger — InshAllah." Naqvi added that President Zardari "enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces." On the 47th anniversary of General Zia-ul-Haq's infamous 1977 military coup, there have been rumours floating on social media, hinting that Munir might replace Zardari as Pakistan's president.

Speaking to the media, Sharif said that the reports were nothing but baseless propaganda and said that Munir has "never shown interest in the presidency". He insisted that the president and the army chief work in tandem with mutual trust, and that no shuffle in their roles was imminent.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday (Jul 11) firmly rejected reports suggesting that the nation's President Asif Ali Zardari may step down and that Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir wanted to become president in his stead. Speaking to the media, Sharif said that the reports were nothing but baseless propaganda and said that Munir has "never shown interest in the presidency". He insisted that the president and the army chief work in tandem with mutual trust, and that no shuffle in their roles was imminent. What did Sharif say about Asif Munir's alleged presidential bid? Calling the reports a baseless, malicious propaganda campaign, the Pakistani Sharif dismissed rumours of discord and said that "Field Marshal Asim Munir has never shown interest in the presidency." He also insisted that there was no "plan under discussion" regarding Asif Ali Zardari stepping down or Munir taking over. He stressed that he, Zardari and Munir work with mutual trust and that the relationship they share was based on mutual trust and respect and a shared vision for a better and stronger Pakistan. His statement follows a similar statement by Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. On his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Pakistani interior minister alleged that there was a deliberate attempt to target President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz, and Army Chief Munir. He claimed that they "know exactly who is spreading this false narrative" and insisted that "There has been no conversation, no plan, and no such idea that President Zardari will resign or that the COAS wants to become President". Accusing foreign hostile elements of promoting the so-called smear campaign, he said, "Those behind this disinformation may continue working with foreign agencies, but we will do whatever is needed to make Pakistan stronger — InshAllah." Naqvi added that President Zardari "enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces." On the 47th anniversary of General Zia-ul-Haq's infamous 1977 military coup, there have been rumours floating on social media, hinting that Munir might replace Zardari as Pakistan's president.

Speaking to the media, Sharif said that the reports were nothing but baseless propaganda and said that Munir has "never shown interest in the presidency". He insisted that the president and the army chief work in tandem with mutual trust, and that no shuffle in their roles was imminent.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif rejects claims of Army Chief replacing President Zardari: 'Munir never showed interest in presidency'

Amid speculations over the possible ouster of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, the Islamabad government on Thursday (July 10) dismissed the rumours, calling it a "malicious campaign". This comes after reports flooded social media, claiming that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was set to place Zardari as the country's president.Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the Pakistani government is fully aware of who is behind this "malicious campaign".“We are fully aware of who is behind the malicious campaign targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the chief of army staff,” Naqvi said in a post shared on X., However, he did not name anyone.He further stressed that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist about the president's resignation.“I have categorically stated that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist about the president being asked to resign or the COAS aspiring to assume the presidency,” he said.Naqvi added that President Zardari “enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces.”Calling it propaganda, Naqvi cited Zardari as having "clearly" stated, “I know who is spreading these falsehoods, why they are doing so, and who stands to benefit from this propaganda.”On the 47th anniversary of General Zia-ul-Haq's infamous 1977 military coup, there have been rumours floating on social media, hinting that Munir might replace Zardari as Pakistan president.In May this year, the Shehbaz Sharif-led government announced to promote Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir to Field Marshal. This marked the second time, an officer in Pakistan's history to reached that rank. The last time it happened was with General Ayub Khan, who was promoted in 1959.Munir's promotion came just days after Pakistan suffered massive destruction at terrorist sites in India's Operation Sindoor.

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the Pakistani government is fully aware of who is behind this “malicious campaign”, calling it “propaganda”. 

Amid speculations over the possible ouster of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, the Islamabad government on Thursday (July 10) dismissed the rumours, calling it a "malicious campaign". This comes after reports flooded social media, claiming that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was set to place Zardari as the country's president. Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the Pakistani government is fully aware of who is behind this "malicious campaign". “We are fully aware of who is behind the malicious campaign targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the chief of army staff,” Naqvi said in a post shared on X., However, he did not name anyone. He further stressed that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist about the president's resignation. “I have categorically stated that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist about the president being asked to resign or the COAS aspiring to assume the presidency,” he said. Naqvi added that President Zardari “enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces.” Calling it propaganda, Naqvi cited Zardari as having "clearly" stated, “I know who is spreading these falsehoods, why they are doing so, and who stands to benefit from this propaganda.” On the 47th anniversary of General Zia-ul-Haq's infamous 1977 military coup, there have been rumours floating on social media, hinting that Munir might replace Zardari as Pakistan president. In May this year, the Shehbaz Sharif-led government announced to promote Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir to Field Marshal. This marked the second time, an officer in Pakistan's history to reached that rank. The last time it happened was with General Ayub Khan, who was promoted in 1959. Munir's promotion came just days after Pakistan suffered massive destruction at terrorist sites in India's Operation Sindoor.

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the Pakistani government is fully aware of who is behind this “malicious campaign”, calling it “propaganda”.&nbsp;

Asim Munir to dethrone Asif Ali Zardari as president. Pakistan government responds - See what it said

Pakistan's Field Marshal and Army Chief, Asim Munir, is all set to have a luxury tour to Sri Lanka while his country is on the edge of economic collapse. Munir’s upcoming “diplomatic" visit to Sri Lanka from July 20–23 is less a state mission and more a taxpayer-funded royal holiday, as per News 18 report.&nbsp;In his lavish trip, Munir will fly on a special aircraft, enjoy ceremonial bike escorts, embark on luxury city tours, and take not one but multiple helicopter rides. He is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka’s famed Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Adam’s Peak.&nbsp;The Pak general is reported to stay at one of Colombo’s most opulent five-star hotels.&nbsp;This came just weeks after Munir was seen shopping in a high-end American mall just before a key meeting with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Pakistan grants 500% salary hike for top lawmakers, month after IMF’s $1bn bailout&nbsp;This is not the first time that the general public in Pakistan struggles for a livelihood while top officials enjoy the government funds. In early June this year, Pakistan officially gave a massive hike to top lawmakers, just a month after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a bailout of $1 billion. As per the latest report, the Shehbaz Sharif-led government has raised the monthly salary of the National Assembly speaker and the Senate chairman to ₹1.3 million (approx. $12k).&nbsp;Previously, the speaker was getting ₹205,000 per month.&nbsp;The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs issued the notification on May 29, but details surfaced on Friday, Samaa TV reported.&nbsp;The ground reality of Pakistan's economy&nbsp;Pakistan is now world's fourth-largest borrower from the IMF (International Monetary Fund).The country is stuck under $10.4 billion loan, clearly showing Pakistan is everything but an economically stable country.&nbsp;As per the data till March 2023, Inflation in Pakistan touched 35.37 per cent. This was the highest in nearly 50 years in the country's history.&nbsp;Pakistan is also going through a crisis as its public debt continues to spiral, with most of its budget being eaten up loan installments.&nbsp;

This came just weeks after Munir was seen shopping in a high-end American mall just before a key meeting with US President Donald Trump.



Pakistan's Field Marshal and Army Chief, Asim Munir, is all set to have a luxury tour to Sri Lanka while his country is on the edge of economic collapse. Munir’s upcoming “diplomatic" visit to Sri Lanka from July 20–23 is less a state mission and more a taxpayer-funded royal holiday, as per News 18 report. In his lavish trip, Munir will fly on a special aircraft, enjoy ceremonial bike escorts, embark on luxury city tours, and take not one but multiple helicopter rides. He is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka’s famed Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Adam’s Peak. The Pak general is reported to stay at one of Colombo’s most opulent five-star hotels. This came just weeks after Munir was seen shopping in a high-end American mall just before a key meeting with US President Donald Trump. Pakistan grants 500% salary hike for top lawmakers, month after IMF’s $1bn bailout This is not the first time that the general public in Pakistan struggles for a livelihood while top officials enjoy the government funds. In early June this year, Pakistan officially gave a massive hike to top lawmakers, just a month after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a bailout of $1 billion. As per the latest report, the Shehbaz Sharif-led government has raised the monthly salary of the National Assembly speaker and the Senate chairman to ₹1.3 million (approx. $12k). Previously, the speaker was getting ₹205,000 per month. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs issued the notification on May 29, but details surfaced on Friday, Samaa TV reported. The ground reality of Pakistan's economy Pakistan is now world's fourth-largest borrower from the IMF (International Monetary Fund). The country is stuck under $10.4 billion loan, clearly showing Pakistan is everything but an economically stable country. As per the data till March 2023, Inflation in Pakistan touched 35.37 per cent. This was the highest in nearly 50 years in the country's history. Pakistan is also going through a crisis as its public debt continues to spiral, with most of its budget being eaten up loan installments.

This came just weeks after Munir was seen shopping in a high-end American mall just before a key meeting with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

From 5-star hotels to luxury cities - Asim Munir to have lavish Sri Lanka trip while Pakistan stays on IMF life support

Pakistan's field marshal Asim Munir is expected to visit Sri Lanka later this month, likely around 21st July. The visit comes given the historic defence cooperation between the two countries, including Pakistan's support to Sri Lanka during its fight against Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).&nbsp;Pakistan supplied military hardware, munitions, and provided training to Sri Lankan forces, which was instrumental in defeating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in 2009. This support included intelligence sharing and military equipment. The visit of Pakistan's field marshal Asim Munir comes years after the visit of Pakistani PM Imran Khan to the country, way back in 2021. That year, Pakistan had offered Sri Lanka a $50 million defence credit line even as both countries undertook military exercises. Nawaz Sharif, as Pakistani PM had visited the country in 2016.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-public-servant-to-resist-seductive-beaty-of-spies-in-massive-honeytrap-warning-1752132691486">China asks public servants to resist 'seductive beauty&nbsp;of spies' in massive honeytrap warning</a>&nbsp;Pakistan has actively promoted the sale of JF-17 fighter jets to Sri Lanka to modernize its air force, but this has not materialised. The 5th Pakistan-Sri Lanka Armed Forces Defence Dialogue (AFDD) in April 2025, held in Islamabad. It was led by Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha.&nbsp;Pakistan's current high commissioner to Sri Lanka is Major General (Retired) Faheem Ul Aziz, HI(M). A former Pakistani Army officer, he was commissioned in the Baloch Regiment, he held several key positions during his military career, including General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 12th Infantry Division in Murree (2013–2015) and Director General of the National Guards in Karachi. Number of previous Pakistani envoys to the country have had military backgrounds.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/viral-video-marathi-language-row-maharashtra-vs-north-indians-hindi-language-policy-latest-marathi-working-in-haryana-couldnt-speak-haryanvi-1752139218342">'This is your nation, do what you'...: A Marathi was found working in Haryana amid anti-north Indian sentiment in Maharashtra. Then, this happened</a>

Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir likely to visit Sri Lanka this month

Pakistan's field marshal Asim Munir is expected to visit Sri Lanka later this month, likely around 21st July. The visit comes given the historic defence cooperation between the two countries, including Pakistan's support to Sri Lanka during its fight against Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Pakistan supplied military hardware, munitions, and provided training to Sri Lankan forces, which was instrumental in defeating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in 2009. This support included intelligence sharing and military equipment. The visit of Pakistan's field marshal Asim Munir comes years after the visit of Pakistani PM Imran Khan to the country, way back in 2021. That year, Pakistan had offered Sri Lanka a $50 million defence credit line even as both countries undertook military exercises. Nawaz Sharif, as Pakistani PM had visited the country in 2016. Also Read: China asks public servants to resist 'seductive beauty of spies' in massive honeytrap warning Pakistan has actively promoted the sale of JF-17 fighter jets to Sri Lanka to modernize its air force, but this has not materialised. The 5th Pakistan-Sri Lanka Armed Forces Defence Dialogue (AFDD) in April 2025, held in Islamabad. It was led by Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha. Pakistan's current high commissioner to Sri Lanka is Major General (Retired) Faheem Ul Aziz, HI(M). A former Pakistani Army officer, he was commissioned in the Baloch Regiment, he held several key positions during his military career, including General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 12th Infantry Division in Murree (2013–2015) and Director General of the National Guards in Karachi. Number of previous Pakistani envoys to the country have had military backgrounds. Also Read: 'This is your nation, do what you'...: A Marathi was found working in Haryana amid anti-north Indian sentiment in Maharashtra. Then, this happened

Pakistan supplied military hardware, munitions, and provided training to Sri Lankan forces, which was instrumental in defeating the LTTE in 2009. This support included intelligence sharing and military equipment

Pakistan’s Army Chief is reportedly stoking Islamic radicalism, with a top jihadi-aligned general influencing military decisions—escalating tensions and pushing the nation toward deeper instability.

Jihadi general pushing Pak to doom, Pak's army chief fuels tensions with Islamic radicalism

India has confirmed it successfully neutralised a wave of drone and missile attacks launched by Pakistan on Thursday (May 08) night. The targets included key military installations in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-indian-cities-blackout-punjab-jammu-kashmir-rajasthan-gujarat-new-delhi-india-gate-indian-army-pakistans-drone-attacks-9049750">Jammu and Pathankot.</a> The attacks came just a day after India carried out Operation Sindoor, a military response to the deadly terror strike in Pahalgam.
<h2>Pentagon veteran slams Pakistan&rsquo;s Army Chief</h2>
In the wake of the failed strikes, former Pentagon official and American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Michael Rubin issued a sharp warning to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-can-pakistan-use-f-16s-against-india-operation-sindoor-pakistan-drone-attack-pahalgam-terror-attack-9050088" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War: Can Pakistan use F-16s against India? Here&rsquo;s what the rules say</a>
&ldquo;Pakistan started the conflict with its support for terrorism. Indians were the victims of terrorism. While I was initially critical that Prime Minister Modi had taken so long to respond, but it's clear that the Indian military was carefully planning and the Indian military has shown itself to be far more capable,&rdquo; Rubin stated.
&ldquo;Pakistan is thrashing about, looking for a way to save face. But Asim Munir should understand that the first rule of hole digging is when you're in a hole, stop digging,&rdquo; Rubin added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-us-turkey-brazil-norway-world-reacts-to-pakistan-failed-drone-attack-india-operation-sindoor-india-pakistan-war-pahalgam-terror-attack-9049961" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | US 'not going to get involved'; Turkey 'concerned': World reacts to Pakistan&rsquo;s failed&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on&nbsp;India</a>
Looking ahead, Rubin called for strong diplomatic action, &ldquo;There can only be one metric by which we look at the diplomatic solution to this issue. Pakistan has to be designated by the United States to be a state sponsor of terror.&rdquo;
<h2>Unconfirmed reports of Army Chief Asim Munir&rsquo;s arrest</h2>
As Pakistan reels from the failed strike and criticism, reports circulating on social media suggest possible unrest within the country&rsquo;s military leadership. There are unconfirmed reports of Army Chief Asim Munir&rsquo;s potential arrest or removal, although none of these claims have been officially confirmed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-war-operation-sindoor-pakistan-eyes-in-the-sky-what-is-awacs-airborne-warning-and-control-systems-pak-drone-attack-9049701" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War: What are AWACS aircraft? How many&nbsp;of these &lsquo;eyes in the sky&rsquo; are&nbsp;left&nbsp;with&nbsp;Pakistan?</a>

Pakistan: In the wake of the failed strikes, former Pentagon official and American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Michael Rubin issued a sharp warning to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. India news

India has confirmed it successfully neutralised a wave of drone and missile attacks launched by Pakistan on Thursday (May 08) night. The targets included key military installations in Jammu and Pathankot. The attacks came just a day after India carried out Operation Sindoor, a military response to the deadly terror strike in Pahalgam. Pentagon veteran slams Pakistan’s Army Chief In the wake of the failed strikes, former Pentagon official and American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Michael Rubin issued a sharp warning to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. Also read: Indo-Pak War: Can Pakistan use F-16s against India? Here’s what the rules say “Pakistan started the conflict with its support for terrorism. Indians were the victims of terrorism. While I was initially critical that Prime Minister Modi had taken so long to respond, but it's clear that the Indian military was carefully planning and the Indian military has shown itself to be far more capable,” Rubin stated. “Pakistan is thrashing about, looking for a way to save face. But Asim Munir should understand that the first rule of hole digging is when you're in a hole, stop digging,” Rubin added. Also read: Indo-Pak War | US 'not going to get involved'; Turkey 'concerned': World reacts to Pakistan’s failed attack on India Looking ahead, Rubin called for strong diplomatic action, “There can only be one metric by which we look at the diplomatic solution to this issue. Pakistan has to be designated by the United States to be a state sponsor of terror.” Unconfirmed reports of Army Chief Asim Munir’s arrest As Pakistan reels from the failed strike and criticism, reports circulating on social media suggest possible unrest within the country’s military leadership. There are unconfirmed reports of Army Chief Asim Munir’s potential arrest or removal, although none of these claims have been officially confirmed. Also read: Indo-Pak War: What are AWACS aircraft? How many of these ‘eyes in the sky’ are left with Pakistan?

Indo-Pak war | 'Stop digging': Ex-Pentagon official warns Asim Munir after India crushes Pakistan’s airstrike attempt

On April 16, Pakistan Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir called Kashmir the "jugular vein" of Pakistan. Less than a week later, Pakistan-backed terrorists struck in Pahalgam. Now facing India’s fury, Munir’s motives and military past are under sharp scrutiny. Here's a brief look at the man behind the statement.

Who is Gen Asim Munir? Pak Army Chief calls Kashmir 'jugular vein'; terror attack follows

#Gravitas | Recent remarks made by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir regarding Kashmir being Islamabad's "jugular vein" has been slammed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, asserting that Kashmir is an integral Union Territory of India.

India slams Pakistan Army Chief's Kashmir claims

On Day 2 of the Overseas Pakistani Convention in Islamabad, a man reportedly interrupted the speech of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation(OPF) Chair. His video is going viral on the internet after Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's controversial speech. Munir on day 3 of the conference spoke on the two-nation theory, Kashmir, Hindus and Pakistanis, among other things.&nbsp;
The man can be heard saying in the video, "Why are you not listening to us? You have called us but you are not listening to us. Our time is important. You are the host, but you have called us so listen to us? You are telling the things that we have been hearing since our childhood. What is the point, tell us something else. We don't want this."
The Overseas Pakistanis Convention was held from April 13 to April 16.
WION does not independently verify the authenticity of the video.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-army-chief-peddles-two-nation-theory-asserts-india-pakistan-hindus-pakistanis-very-different-8971047">Pakistan army chief peddles two-nation theory, asserts India-Pakistan, Hindus-Pakistanis very different</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9l4un24-snhaivoq-lvyzi1pq">
Frustrated Overseas Pakistani Mocked Asim Munir's Boring Lengthy Conference. <a href="https://t.co/Jv0lZAPiXv">pic.twitter.com/Jv0lZAPiXv</a>
&mdash; OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/OsintTV/status/1912587074907107728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/vehicles-damaged-windows-shattered-insane-hailstorm-creates-chaos-in-pakistans-islamabad-watch-8969466" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vehicles damaged, windows shattered: &lsquo;Insane&rsquo; hailstorm creates chaos in Pakistan&rsquo;s Islamabad | WATCH</a>
<h2>What did the Pakistan army chief say?</h2>
General Asim Munir asked Pakistanis everywhere to narrate the story of how the nation was born, to their children, and asked them to make sure that the "story of Pakistan should never be forgotten."&nbsp;"You have to narrate Pakistan&rsquo;s story to your children so that they don&rsquo;t forget it when our forefathers thought we were different from Hindus in every possible aspect of life," he said. Munir also said that Kashmir is Islamabad's "jugular vein"
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shocking-two-indian-nationals-murdered-by-pakistani-coworker-in-dubai-8966132">&nbsp;Two Indian nationals murdered by Pakistani coworker in Dubai</a>
Reaffirmed the two-nation theory, he stressed that the cultural, religious, and ideological differences between Hindus and Muslims were the foundation for Pakistan's creation. "Our religion is different, our customs are different, our traditions are different, our thoughts are different, our ambitions are different, that's where the foundation of the two-nation theory was laid," said Munir.&nbsp;"We are two nations, we are not one nation," he emphasised.&nbsp;
Munir also addressed internal security issues, particularly in Balochistan, where he vowed to eliminate terrorist threats from groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Republican Army (BRA). Labelling it the "destiny o Pakistan" he said that "even ten generations of terrorists cannot harm Balochistan and Pakistan".&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-why-india-pakistan-and-afghanistan-facing-extreme-heatwave-8963649" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Here's why India, Pakistan and Afghanistan facing extreme heatwave</a>

World | On Day 2 of the Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad, a man reportedly interrupted the speech of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation(OPF) Chair

On Day 2 of the Overseas Pakistani Convention in Islamabad, a man reportedly interrupted the speech of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation(OPF) Chair. His video is going viral on the internet after Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's controversial speech. Munir on day 3 of the conference spoke on the two-nation theory, Kashmir, Hindus and Pakistanis, among other things. The man can be heard saying in the video, "Why are you not listening to us? You have called us but you are not listening to us. Our time is important. You are the host, but you have called us so listen to us? You are telling the things that we have been hearing since our childhood. What is the point, tell us something else. We don't want this." The Overseas Pakistanis Convention was held from April 13 to April 16. WION does not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Read More | Pakistan army chief peddles two-nation theory, asserts India-Pakistan, Hindus-Pakistanis very different Frustrated Overseas Pakistani Mocked Asim Munir's Boring Lengthy Conference. pic.twitter.com/Jv0lZAPiXv — OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) April 16, 2025 Vehicles damaged, windows shattered: ‘Insane’ hailstorm creates chaos in Pakistan’s Islamabad | WATCH What did the Pakistan army chief say? General Asim Munir asked Pakistanis everywhere to narrate the story of how the nation was born, to their children, and asked them to make sure that the "story of Pakistan should never be forgotten." "You have to narrate Pakistan’s story to your children so that they don’t forget it when our forefathers thought we were different from Hindus in every possible aspect of life," he said. Munir also said that Kashmir is Islamabad's "jugular vein" Read More | Two Indian nationals murdered by Pakistani coworker in Dubai Reaffirmed the two-nation theory, he stressed that the cultural, religious, and ideological differences between Hindus and Muslims were the foundation for Pakistan's creation. "Our religion is different, our customs are different, our traditions are different, our thoughts are different, our ambitions are different, that's where the foundation of the two-nation theory was laid," said Munir. "We are two nations, we are not one nation," he emphasised. Munir also addressed internal security issues, particularly in Balochistan, where he vowed to eliminate terrorist threats from groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Republican Army (BRA). Labelling it the "destiny o Pakistan" he said that "even ten generations of terrorists cannot harm Balochistan and Pakistan". Read More | Here's why India, Pakistan and Afghanistan facing extreme heatwave

WATCH | Video of man interrupting speech in overseas convention goes viral amid Pak Army chief's controversial statement

In another sign of the warming up of ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, top army officials from both sides met on Tuesday (Jan 14) at the Joint Staff Headquarters (JSHQ) in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan Army&rsquo;s media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), vowed to deepen their bilateral defence cooperation.
The Bangladeshi official also met General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan.
Officials from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protect their ties from &lsquo;external disruptions&rsquo; and to promote regional peace.
Notably, the Bangladeshi army official expressed his &lsquo;deep admiration&rsquo; for Pakistan Army&rsquo;s &lsquo;fight against terrorism&rsquo; and their &lsquo;professionalism.&rsquo;
This comes as Pakistan&rsquo;s neighbours Afghanistan and India have accused Islamabad in recent days of providing safe haven to ISIS terrorists.
Abbas Stanekzai, the Taliban's deputy foreign minister, last week claimed that the Pakistani Army was providing training to ISIS fighters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/come-and-join-us-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-tells-pok-residents-to-leave-pakistan-for-india-756887">'Come and join us': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tells PoK residents to leave Pakistan for India</a>
The ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh have grown stronger following the ouster of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina in August last year. The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, has already eased the visa process for Pakistanis.
<h2>Pakistan-Bangladesh MoU on rice export</h2>
Meanwhile, the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) and the Directorate General of Food of Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for export of rice from Pakistan to Bangladesh, reported Chinese media Xinhua.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-couldve-offered-pakistan-more-money-than-imf-aid-if-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-763070">'India could've offered Pakistan more money than IMF aid if...': Defence minister Rajnath Singh</a>
Syed Rafeo Bashir Shah, Chairman of TCP, and Md Abdul Khaleque, director general of the Directorate General of Food of Bangladesh, reportedly signed the agreement on Tuesday in Dhaka.
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | Bangladesh | Pakistan: Bangladeshi army official expressed his ‘deep admiration’ for Pakistan Army’s ‘fight against terrorism’ and their ‘professionalism.’

In another sign of the warming up of ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, top army officials from both sides met on Tuesday (Jan 14) at the Joint Staff Headquarters (JSHQ) in Rawalpindi. Pakistan Army’s media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), vowed to deepen their bilateral defence cooperation. The Bangladeshi official also met General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan. Officials from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protect their ties from ‘external disruptions’ and to promote regional peace. Notably, the Bangladeshi army official expressed his ‘deep admiration’ for Pakistan Army’s ‘fight against terrorism’ and their ‘professionalism.’ This comes as Pakistan’s neighbours Afghanistan and India have accused Islamabad in recent days of providing safe haven to ISIS terrorists. Abbas Stanekzai, the Taliban's deputy foreign minister, last week claimed that the Pakistani Army was providing training to ISIS fighters. Also read: 'Come and join us': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tells PoK residents to leave Pakistan for India The ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh have grown stronger following the ouster of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina in August last year. The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, has already eased the visa process for Pakistanis. Pakistan-Bangladesh MoU on rice export Meanwhile, the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) and the Directorate General of Food of Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for export of rice from Pakistan to Bangladesh, reported Chinese media Xinhua. Also read: 'India could've offered Pakistan more money than IMF aid if...': Defence minister Rajnath Singh Syed Rafeo Bashir Shah, Chairman of TCP, and Md Abdul Khaleque, director general of the Directorate General of Food of Bangladesh, reportedly signed the agreement on Tuesday in Dhaka. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh army official praises Pakistan for ‘fight against terror’ in high-level meet

Pakistan’s Army has for the first time publicly acknowledged its involvement in the 1999 Kargil War against India. Speaking at an event to commemorate Defence Day, Army Chief General Asim Munir honoured the Pakistan soldiers who had died in various conflicts with India, including the Kargil War, a topic that had been carefully avoided in official statements for over two decades.

Pakistan General Asim Munir clubs Kargil war with other wars against India

PTI Chief founder and jailed former PM Imran Khan on Wednesday alleged that Army chief General Asim Munir was directly responsible for the imprisonment of his wife Bushra Bibi.

Imran Khan: Pakistan governed by jungle government

Imran Khan warns Pakistan army chief

The Pakistan Army has just undertaken a massive purge. 3 Army officials have been sacked while 15 other officers have been disciplined. They've been accused of failing to protect military installations during the May 9 violence. Molly Gambhir reports.

Pak Army goes for unprecedented cleanup

Pressure is growing on Imran Khan in the latest updates the country's Army Chief Asim Munir has issued a stern warning. General Asim Munir says efforts to create distortions won't help the perpetrators of the May 9th violence. He hasn't named the former Prime Minister or PTI here but the warning is very clear.

Pakistan Military hints at action against PTI for May 9th violence

Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir warns May 9 violence perpetrators, says 'won't spare those behind it'

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan said on Thursday (March 9) that his party,&nbsp;the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's problems increased after the appointment of new army chief General Asim Munir. Speaking to BBC, Khan said that the PTI was expecting a change after the new army chief came in. But there was no change and in fact, hardships increased, Khan said.&nbsp;

On being asked about his intention to meet General Munir, the former prime minister said it was being reported that he wanted an audience with the army chief, and he did not need the establishment if he wanted to speak to Munir.&nbsp;

ALSO READ &nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shot-snubbed-soon-to-be-jailed-ex-pak-pm-imran-khan-says-he-will-be-arrested-and-sent-to-balochistan-570340">Shot, snubbed, soon-to-be jailed? Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan says he will be arrested, ‘sent to Balochistan’</a>

Khan also said he only wanted elections in Pakistan and was ready to talk to anyone in this regard. "When asked what will I do if the establishment says it wants to talk to you, I said I am a political person and can talk to everyone except for those thieves," Khan told BBC in an apparent reference to the ruling government.&nbsp; 
 
Khan also said that he never invited the army chief or Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to talks.

The PTI chairperson's comments come after media reports said that Khan did reach out to General Munir but was rebuffed.

Citing unnamed sources, Geo News reported that General Munir told businessmen earlier this week that Imran Khan sent him a message seeking a meeting, but he told the former prime minister that it was not his job as army chief to meet politicians.&nbsp;

Munir also asserted that he would neither interfere in politics nor would play any role in it.&nbsp;

Imran Khan has been demanding snap elections in Pakistan since he was ousted last year. The current government, however, has rejected the demand and said that elections would be held as scheduled later this year.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan said on Thursday (March 9) that his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's problems increased after the appointment of new army chief General Asim Munir.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan said on Thursday (March 9) that his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's problems increased after the appointment of new army chief General Asim Munir. Speaking to BBC, Khan said that the PTI was expecting a change after the new army chief came in. But there was no change and in fact, hardships increased, Khan said. On being asked about his intention to meet General Munir, the former prime minister said it was being reported that he wanted an audience with the army chief, and he did not need the establishment if he wanted to speak to Munir. ALSO READ | Shot, snubbed, soon-to-be jailed? Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan says he will be arrested, ‘sent to Balochistan’ Khan also said he only wanted elections in Pakistan and was ready to talk to anyone in this regard. "When asked what will I do if the establishment says it wants to talk to you, I said I am a political person and can talk to everyone except for those thieves," Khan told BBC in an apparent reference to the ruling government. Khan also said that he never invited the army chief or Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to talks. The PTI chairperson's comments come after media reports said that Khan did reach out to General Munir but was rebuffed. Citing unnamed sources, Geo News reported that General Munir told businessmen earlier this week that Imran Khan sent him a message seeking a meeting, but he told the former prime minister that it was not his job as army chief to meet politicians. Munir also asserted that he would neither interfere in politics nor would play any role in it. Imran Khan has been demanding snap elections in Pakistan since he was ousted last year. The current government, however, has rejected the demand and said that elections would be held as scheduled later this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan says PTI’s problems increased after appointment of new army chief

Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistani Army, will now be led by Major General Ahmed Sharif from the corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME). Sharif will be the first officer from EME corps to take up the designation, although this in itself is not unprecedented. As the new head of ISPR, Sharif replaces Lt Gen Babar Iftikhar.

Why change in ISPR ranks?

This is because the ISPR Director General's position is for an officer of major general or two-star rank. Lt Gen Iftikhar, however, became a three-star general last month.&nbsp;

It is now reported that Lt Gen Iftikhar will&nbsp;head to the militarily significant fifth Corps based out of Karachi,&nbsp;replacing Lt Gen Muhammed Saeed as V Corps commander.&nbsp;

Who will be the new Chief of General Staff (CGS)?

The Chief of General Staff is the second most powerful person in the Pakistani Army. According to sources, Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed, who currently commands Karachi-headquartered fifth Corps, is poised to become the new Chief of General Staff.

Asim Munir's COAS elevation triggers premature retirements in Pak army

Pakistan Army has nine corps and three corps-level formations.&nbsp;

Bahawalpur-headquartered 31 Corps doesn't have a Commanding Officer after Lt Gen Faiz Hameed prematurely demitted office following Asim Munir's appointment as new Chief of Army Staff. According to sources, 31 Corps will now be commanded by Lt Gen Saqib Mehmood Malik, who is currently the Chief of Logistics Staff in Pakistan's army.&nbsp;

Faiz was also one of the names among six shortlisted individuals sent to the Prime Minister's Office by Rawalpindi, and thus was in running for coveted designation of army chief. After Asim Munir's appointment as Chief of Army Staff, he prematurely demitted office.&nbsp;

Similarly, Lt Gen Azhar Abbas also took the path of premature retirement after his name&nbsp; wasn't finalised from the top 6 in contention for army chief's post. He was the second most powerful man in the army as Chief of General Staff (CGS).

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Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team.

Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistani Army, will now be led by Major General Ahmed Sharif from the corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME). Sharif will be the first officer from EME corps to take up the designation, although this in itself is not unprecedented. As the new head of ISPR, Sharif replaces Lt Gen Babar Iftikhar. Why change in ISPR ranks? This is because the ISPR Director General's position is for an officer of major general or two-star rank. Lt Gen Iftikhar, however, became a three-star general last month. It is now reported that Lt Gen Iftikhar will head to the militarily significant fifth Corps based out of Karachi, replacing Lt Gen Muhammed Saeed as V Corps commander. Who will be the new Chief of General Staff (CGS)? The Chief of General Staff is the second most powerful person in the Pakistani Army. According to sources, Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed, who currently commands Karachi-headquartered fifth Corps, is poised to become the new Chief of General Staff. Asim Munir's COAS elevation triggers premature retirements in Pak army Pakistan Army has nine corps and three corps-level formations. Bahawalpur-headquartered 31 Corps doesn't have a Commanding Officer after Lt Gen Faiz Hameed prematurely demitted office following Asim Munir's appointment as new Chief of Army Staff. According to sources, 31 Corps will now be commanded by Lt Gen Saqib Mehmood Malik, who is currently the Chief of Logistics Staff in Pakistan's army. Faiz was also one of the names among six shortlisted individuals sent to the Prime Minister's Office by Rawalpindi, and thus was in running for coveted designation of army chief. After Asim Munir's appointment as Chief of Army Staff, he prematurely demitted office. Similarly, Lt Gen Azhar Abbas also took the path of premature retirement after his name wasn't finalised from the top 6 in contention for army chief's post. He was the second most powerful man in the army as Chief of General Staff (CGS). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

General Asim Munir kicks off Pakistan army's game of thrones with major reshuffle

Pakistan has appointed Asim Munir as its new Army Chief. Who is he? What are his credentials? What changes can he bring to the Pakistani military establishment? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Who is Pakistan's new Army Chief?

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday picked Lt General Asim Munir to be the new army chief. The appointment was eagerly awaited as it was happening in the backdrop of a purported tussle between outgoing General Qamar Javed Bajwa and former premier Imran Khan.

Sharif-led Cabinet has sent the recommendation to President Arif Alvi, who will finalise his appointment.

Lt. General Munir&nbsp;will succeed General Bajwa, who is due to retire on November 29.

Here’s what we know about Lt Gen Munir.

<h2>Head of ISI during the Pulwama attack in India</h2>

Lt Gen Munir is the current Quarter Master General. He is said to be close to General Bajwa.

He was the head of the country’s spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) when the Pulwama suicide attack in February 2019 resulted in the death of 40 CRPF personnel in India.

It was during this period that tensions between India and Pakistan escalated to the point that everyone was fearing an impending conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations.

<h2>Pakistan: Lt Gen Asim Munir appointed as new Army Chief, will succeed Gen Bajwa</h2>

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During this time, Munir was calling all the shots — be it shaping Pakistan’s response and security policies.

However, his stint as the ISI chief was short-lived as he was replaced by Lt Gen Faiz Hamid, considered close to the then prime minister Imran Khan.

He also has considerable expertise in dealing with matters related to India following his stints as director general of military operations during 2015-18 and chief of general staff during 2019-21.

<h2>Tiff with Imran Khan</h2>

It is said that his no-nonsense attitude and playing-by-the-book&nbsp;approach did not sit well with Imran Khan.

According to reports, Khan was livid when Munir brought to his attention about Bushra Bibi's, former PM's wife, involvement in corrupt practices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lt-gen-asim-munir-named-pakistans-new-army-chief-536997">Lt Gen Asim Munir, due to retire on Nov 27, named Pakistan’s new army chief&nbsp;</a>

Earlier in the day, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's&nbsp;official account quoted its chief Imran Khan as saying,&nbsp;“After the summary comes, I and the president of Pakistan will act according to the Constitution and laws.”

Khan claimed that&nbsp;President Arif Alvi will&nbsp;consult him on the summary.

“I am the head of my political party and the president will definitely consult me,” he was quoted as saying by ARY news channel.

<h2>Close ties with Bajwa</h2>

Lt Gen Munir was a commander in the Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) at the time when Bajwa was commander of the X Corps. The FCNA falls under the command of the X Corps.

His ascension to the top post is in accordance with the senior-most principle.

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday picked Lt General Asim Munir to be the new army chief. The appointment was eagerly awaited as it was happening in the backdrop of a purported tussle between outgoing General Qamar Javed Bajwa and former premier Imran Khan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday picked Lt General Asim Munir to be the new army chief. The appointment was eagerly awaited as it was happening in the backdrop of a purported tussle between outgoing General Qamar Javed Bajwa and former premier Imran Khan. Sharif-led Cabinet has sent the recommendation to President Arif Alvi, who will finalise his appointment. Lt. General Munir will succeed General Bajwa, who is due to retire on November 29. Here’s what we know about Lt Gen Munir. Head of ISI during the Pulwama attack in India Lt Gen Munir is the current Quarter Master General. He is said to be close to General Bajwa. He was the head of the country’s spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) when the Pulwama suicide attack in February 2019 resulted in the death of 40 CRPF personnel in India. It was during this period that tensions between India and Pakistan escalated to the point that everyone was fearing an impending conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Pakistan: Lt Gen Asim Munir appointed as new Army Chief, will succeed Gen Bajwa During this time, Munir was calling all the shots — be it shaping Pakistan’s response and security policies. However, his stint as the ISI chief was short-lived as he was replaced by Lt Gen Faiz Hamid, considered close to the then prime minister Imran Khan. He also has considerable expertise in dealing with matters related to India following his stints as director general of military operations during 2015-18 and chief of general staff during 2019-21. Tiff with Imran Khan It is said that his no-nonsense attitude and playing-by-the-book approach did not sit well with Imran Khan. According to reports, Khan was livid when Munir brought to his attention about Bushra Bibi's, former PM's wife, involvement in corrupt practices. Also read | Lt Gen Asim Munir, due to retire on Nov 27, named Pakistan’s new army chief Earlier in the day, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's official account quoted its chief Imran Khan as saying, “After the summary comes, I and the president of Pakistan will act according to the Constitution and laws.” Khan claimed that President Arif Alvi will consult him on the summary. “I am the head of my political party and the president will definitely consult me,” he was quoted as saying by ARY news channel. Close ties with Bajwa Lt Gen Munir was a commander in the Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) at the time when Bajwa was commander of the X Corps. The FCNA falls under the command of the X Corps. His ascension to the top post is in accordance with the senior-most principle. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is Lt Gen Asim Munir and why his appointment as next Pak army chief has rattled Imran Khan?

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has named Lieutenant General Asim Munir as the new army chief. Pakistan Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb took to Twitter to make this announcement.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan PM names Lt Gen Asim Munir as new army chief

Pakistan: Lt Gen Asim Munir has been named as the new Army Chief staff and Sahir Shamshad Mirza will be the new Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee. Pakistan Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb took to Twitter to make this announcement. Watch the video to know more about it.

Journalist Omar Altaf reacts to appointment of new Army Chief in Pakistan

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