Who is Lt Gen Asim Malik? Pakistan’s New NSA Appointment Hints at Army-ISI Dominance in India Standoff

A Strategic Appointment Amid Tensions
Lieutenant General Mohammad Asim Malik’s appointment as Pakistan’s National Security Adviser (NSA) on May 1, 2025, has raised eyebrows, coming at a time of escalating tensions with India following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. As the current Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Malik’s dual role as NSA signals a consolidation of military and intelligence influence in Pakistan’s security policy. This move, unprecedented for a serving ISI chief, suggests a deliberate strategy to centralize power within the Army-ISI nexus, especially as Pakistan braces for potential Indian retaliation.

Military Career and Credentials
Lt Gen Malik, a three-star general, is a distinguished officer with a robust military background. Born into a Punjabi Awan family, he is the son of Lt Gen (Retd) Ghulam Muhammad Malik. A Sword of Honour recipient, Malik holds a PhD, making him the first ISI chief with such an academic distinction. His career includes key roles such as Adjutant General at Pakistan Army Headquarters, Chief Instructor at the National Defence University, and instructor at the Command and Staff College in Quetta. Appointed ISI chief in September 2024, Malik’s rapid rise reflects his strategic acumen and loyalty to the military establishment.

Army-ISI Dominance in Policy
Malik’s appointment as NSA, while retaining his ISI role, underscores the Pakistan Army’s tightening grip on national security amid the India standoff. The move follows inflammatory remarks by Army Chief General Asim Munir, which some link to the Pahalgam attack. With ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and Pakistan’s warnings of a “decisive response” to Indian aggression, Malik’s dual portfolio positions him to orchestrate a unified military-intelligence strategy, potentially escalating the conflict.

Implications for India-Pakistan Relations
As India vows a strong response to the Pahalgam attack, Malik’s role as NSA suggests Pakistan is preparing for a prolonged confrontation. His ISI background and military ties indicate a hardline approach, raising concerns about further destabilization in the region.