Enemies exploiting internal weaknesses through proxies: Field Marshal Asim Munir

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has underscored the need for comprehensive preparedness and effective coordination among all elements of national power, warning that hostile elements are resorting to indirect and ambiguous tactics instead of direct confrontation, including the use of proxies to exploit internal vulnerabilities.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Chief of Defence Forces visited the National Defence University (NDU), Islamabad, where he was briefed by panels of civilian and military participants of the national security and war course.

The briefing focused on academic analyses of challenges facing national security and the requirements to address them.

The field marshal highlighted the evolving global, regional and internal security environment, saying Pakistan faces a wide range of persistent and diverse challenges. These span conventional and unconventional threats, as well as intelligence, cyber, information, military and economic domains.

He said that addressing these challenges requires whole-of-nation preparedness and close coordination among all instruments of national power, adding that adversaries are increasingly relying on indirect and hybrid strategies, including the exploitation of internal weaknesses through proxies.

Field Marshal Asim Munir stressed that future leaders must be trained to ensure timely identification, anticipation and effective countering of such multidimensional threats. He said clear decision-making under uncertainty, intellectual strength and mental resilience are essential attributes of effective leadership in today’s contested security environment.

He commended NDU’s role in developing strategic thinkers, saying the institution possesses the capacity to translate rigorous professional education and academic insight into effective policymaking and practical outcomes.

The field marshal said professional military education remains central to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting indigenous capabilities and ensuring long-term national stability.

Appreciating the panels for their in-depth analysis and findings, he urged participants to remain vigilant and steadfast while upholding the values of integrity, discipline and selfless service.

Earlier, upon his arrival at NDU, the Chief of Defence Forces was received by the President of the National Defence University.