Both the Pakistan Army officers who performed interventionist roles in the Arab conflict happen to have Jullundur origins. The similarities, however, end there.
The last time Pakistan dismissed an opposition-led provincial government, the Baloch insurgency spread like wildfire. This phase of insurgency lasted four years.
Field Marshal Asim Munir’s latest reshuffle brings new officers into key Corps Commands, even as retiring generals move into influential military-linked and civilian positions.
In Pakistan, politicians willingly become pawns to keep the political theatre running. Their excuse is that to grab power from the barrel of the gun, there’s no choice but to strike a deal with the devil.
Nauman Mahmood’s appointment as Secretary-General of Mecca pact Secretariat comes against backdrop of Houthis’ lightning advance to wrest control of Red Sea shipping from the Saudis.
More changes are expected in Corps Commander and senior GHQ appointments, with positions such as DG, ISI and DG, ISPR also potentially affected as the chain of postings unfolds.
American drone maker Powerus struck a deal with Pakistan army, even as US and Indian militaries were taking part in the annual bilateral military exercise Yudh Abhyas.
While most Pakistanis question why an armed military officer was present at a university protest, others have portrayed him as a ‘Superman’ who intervened to protect his wife.
Pakistan has restructured its military since Operation Sindoor. The changes could test India’s Dynamic Response Strategy and its ability to act quickly.
At some point Pakistani dictators begin to show paranoia. That’s the strategic reality most relevant to India since the late fifties. Munir’s case is worse, like some sudden acrophobia.
The mood in the Opposition camp is upbeat because of the three trends moving clearly in its favour. And a flailing BJP has so far been unable to do much about it.
A possible easing of Gulf tensions could bring down crude prices and benefit India, but tougher US action against Russian oil companies and banks could make purchases more difficult for Indian refiners.
Netanyahu has won only because he hasn’t been defeated. He’s also changed Israel fundamentally. Any ruling alliance now will have to be a coalition to the exclusion of Israel’s Arab citizens.
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