Pakistan’s historic military triumph over India is anticipated to yield several positive outcomes, with the most immediate being an unprecedented surge in public respect for the armed forces and a notable increase in the popularity of the nation’s political and military leadership, particularly Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.
In a significant turn of events, Pakistan achieved victory in its recent military engagement with India, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s history. This outcome has generated widespread national pride across the nation and has further solidified the leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and COAS Munir.
Analysts are describing this victory as a rare and decisive achievement. It has resulted in a substantial rise in public approval for both the civilian and military leadership. Citizens in various parts of the country took to the streets to commend the armed forces and their top command.
Within political circles, the victory is being credited with bolstering Pakistan’s current governance structure—often referred to as a “hybrid democracy”—which combines elected civilian rule with a significant role for the military. The triumph has added a new layer of legitimacy to this model, while opposition forces, notably the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), appear to have been further marginalized.
The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s record-breaking gains on Monday reflect growing business confidence in the country’s economic prospects. Additional positive influences came from an endorsement by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and strong interest from US President Donald Trump in expanding trade relations with Pakistan.
The Pakistan Army and its senior leadership, who have faced intense criticism and smear campaigns from the PTI, are now experiencing a resurgence in public support and admiration. The military’s performance during the conflict has been widely lauded, both domestically and internationally, as strategic, disciplined, and effective.
Observers believe that this moment will further strengthen the existing power structure, shaped by PM Shehbaz of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Pakistan Peoples Party’s President Asif Ali Zardari, and army chief Gen Asim Munir. The strengthened leadership is expected to maintain its focus on economic recovery and stability.
While the long-term impact on the PTI’s stance towards the establishment remains to be seen following this military success, the immediate aftermath is clear. Pakistan’s leadership has been reinforced, General Asim Munir enjoys unprecedented levels of popularity, and the armed forces have reaffirmed their central role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
PM Shehbaz, previously viewed primarily as an effective administrator, has now elevated his standing on the global stage. His role in restoring international confidence in Pakistan and in maintaining a cohesive alliance with domestic political forces—especially the PPP and other allies—has positioned him as a unifying figure.
