Islamabad: As Iranian leaders and a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance arrived in Islamabad for make-or-break peace talks, all eyes were on Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir. What drew particular scrutiny was not just that he—and not Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif—received both delegations, but his carefully choreographed wardrobe switch.
Combat Gear with Iran
While receiving the 71-member Iranian delegation, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Munir was seen in combat gear (Camouflage Combat Dress) . Defence experts noted that this choice was deliberate, especially given recent missile exchanges and border tensions between the two countries. “Munir did not wear the ceremonial army uniform, but the combat dress. It is to show some kind of strength vis-à-vis Iran,” said defence expert Sandeep Unnithan.
Suit with JD Vance
Hours later, as JD Vance arrived at the Nur Khan air base, Munir was suited and booted in a black suit. Experts argued this was an effort to portray himself as more statesmanlike and diplomatic with the Americans. “Asim Munir is aiming to show that he is a diplomat with the Americans and a soldier with Iran,” said Major General Sanjay Meston (retired).
Projecting Power
Beyond the attire, experts noted a third message: that Munir sits firmly at the centre of power in Pakistan. “The military rules the roost in Pakistan. Asim Munir has gone a step further. He wants to hog the limelight. He knows he calls the shots and wants to prove it,” said Major General Sanjay Soi (retd). The takeaway, the article concludes, is that Munir used the US-Iran talks to reinforce the message globally that he is the most important man in Pakistan right now.
