Pakistan has appointed Lieutenant General Mohammad Asim Malik, the chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as the new National Security Advisor (NSA). He assumed command of the ISI in September 2024, and this new role is an additional responsibility.
India-Pak: A significant shift has occurred in Pakistan's security and political landscape. The appointment of Lieutenant General Mohammad Asim Malik as the new NSA has sparked considerable discussion within Pakistan, particularly amidst heightened tensions with India.
Asim Malik's Significant Appointment
Malik was appointed head of Pakistan's ISI in September 2024. Prior to this, he served as Adjutant General at the Pakistan Army headquarters, overseeing administrative and legal matters. His tenure has coincided with several significant events in Pakistan, including the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and subsequent protests by his supporters.
Pakistan's Security Chief's Career
During his career, Asim Malik commanded divisions in sensitive areas such as Balochistan and South Waziristan, regions known for persistent security challenges. His experience in handling complex security situations in these areas is considerable. His appointment as NSA comes at a time of significantly heightened tensions between Pakistan and India.
India's Security Measures and Pakistan's Responses
India has taken several b measures against Pakistan, particularly following a terrorist attack in Pulwama that resulted in 26 deaths. In response, India suspended the social media accounts and channels of several Pakistani artists and closed its airspace to Pakistani aircraft, further escalating tensions.
PM Modi's Strong Stance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a b statement regarding India's response to Pakistan, asserting that India would identify and punish every terrorist and their supporters. He also directed the military to maintain full operational freedom in responding to the situation.
Pakistan's "Empty Threats" and the Army Chief's Status
While Pakistan has historically issued b but ultimately empty threats, the current situation is perceived as increasingly serious. Pakistan has denied involvement in the Pulwama attack while threatening a b response if provoked.
However, recent inflammatory statements made by Pakistan's Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir, against India have drawn criticism. Subsequently, rumors have circulated on social media claiming Munir is "missing in action," suggesting he has either left Pakistan or is in hiding in Rawalpindi. These rumors are spreading rapidly, alongside escalating rhetoric from prominent Pakistani figures against India.
