Asim Munir Holds Power in Pakistan! Claims to Have Spoken with Donald Trump, Even About Business

When Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir, was recently conferred the rank of Field Marshal, it was said that his power had increased tremendously. After military dictator Ayub Khan, he is the second Pakistani general to receive this title. Reports suggested that Asim Munir had himself declared as Field Marshal to ensure that no legal case could be filed against him in the future. It was also alleged that he is running the government from behind the scenes, with Shahbaz Sharif’s political leadership merely serving as a façade.

Now, these claims appear to be coming true. Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir, recently visited Washington and met former U.S. President Donald Trump. It is being said that, during this visit, Trump asked Munir to allow Pakistan to be used as a launchpad for potential operations against Iran. On the other hand, the propaganda unit of the Pakistani Army, ISPR, has made a different claim. They stated that Munir and Trump discussed strategies to combat terrorism. Additionally, bilateral trade between the two countries was also reportedly discussed.

It is a curious development that a military chief is claimed to have discussed trade matters with a foreign leader. If true, this is a major embarrassment for Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Typically, trade discussions are conducted between heads of state, but Asim Munir’s conversation with Donald Trump raises serious questions. If Munir is engaging in economic diplomacy, it implies that he is now the real power in Pakistan, while the civilian leadership functions only as a figurehead. Experts believe that Asim Munir has tightened his grip over the political leadership by assuring them he will keep Imran Khan imprisoned.

A First in Pakistan’s History: Army Chief Meets U.S. President

This marks the first time in Pakistan’s history that a sitting army chief has been invited to meet a U.S. President. Such a development had never occurred before, and it has significantly elevated Asim Munir’s stature in Pakistan’s internal political landscape. It is believed that the United States has persuaded Munir to support efforts involving a potential launchpad against Iran. Reports suggest that an American strike on Iran may occur within a week, and Washington is therefore attempting to secure Pakistan’s cooperation in advance.

At the same time, Pakistan—grappling with a severe economic crisis—sees U.S. support as crucial. Thus, cooperation with the U.S. could also be seen as a strategic necessity for Pakistan in the current geopolitical climate.