Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), is currently on an official visit to the United States, where he met with members of the Pakistani diaspora in Washington, D.C. The Army Chief was warmly welcomed by a large gathering of overseas Pakistanis, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday.
In his address, the COAS praised overseas Pakistanis for serving as Pakistan’s ambassadors abroad and acknowledged their significant contributions to the national economy through remittances, investments, and accomplishments across various global sectors.
Field Marshal Munir also engaged with the community, listening to their experiences and suggestions, and stressed the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to tackle shared challenges and strengthen ties.
Community members expressed deep appreciation for the Armed Forces’ role during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos / Marka-e-Haq, lauding the military’s courage and professionalism.
The meeting came amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which left 26 people dead. India quickly blamed Pakistan-based actors without presenting evidence, a claim Islamabad strongly refuted, calling for an impartial international investigation.
In response, India took drastic steps—including shutting down the Wagah border, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, and cancelling Pakistani visas. Pakistan condemned any disruption of water flow as an “act of war” and sealed its side of the Wagah crossing.
The standoff escalated with Indian airstrikes on Pakistani territory. Pakistan retaliated by downing five Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales, and dozens of Israeli-manufactured drones.
Amid rising hostilities, both countries ultimately agreed to an immediate ceasefire brokered by the United States, halting days of intense military exchange.
