ISLAMABAD: The federal government has appointed Lt Gen Muhammad Asim Malik, the current Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as Pakistan’s new National Security Adviser (NSA). The decision comes amid heightened security challenges, including escalating tensions with India following recent clashes and cross-border accusations.
According to official sources, Gen Malik will retain his role as ISI chief while assuming the NSA position, a dual mandate aimed at strengthening coordination between military and civilian institutions on internal and external security matters. Analysts view the move as a strategic effort to streamline counterterrorism and regional security policies.
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The appointment follows a surge in hostilities, including the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which sparked retaliatory measures from New Delhi. Both nations have expelled diplomats and exchanged accusations of state-sponsored terrorism in recent weeks.
Lt Gen Malik, a decorated officer with extensive experience in conflict zones like Balochistan and Waziristan, is the first sitting ISI chief to hold the NSA role. He is also the agency’s first PhD-holder, with expertise in security strategy. Critics, however, argue the dual appointment reflects the military’s growing influence in civilian governance.
