Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik will continue in his role as the Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s premier intelligence agency, security sources confirmed on Monday.
“Lt Gen Asim Malik is continuing his services in his present appointment,” said a senior security official, dismissing speculation about his retirement, which was earlier expected later this year.
In addition to heading the ISI, General Malik also serves as the country’s National Security Advisor (NSA)—a dual role aimed at strengthening coordination between national security policy and operational execution. He was entrusted with the NSA portfolio in April 2025 by the federal government.
Lt Gen Asim Malik took charge as DG ISI on September 30, 2024, succeeding Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum. His appointment marked a strategic shift, bringing in a leader with extensive field and institutional experience. He previously commanded an infantry division in Balochistan and served as Chief Instructor at the National Defence University (NDU).
At 55 years old, General Malik is regarded as one of the finest officers in the Pakistan Army, with a reputation for professionalism and strategic insight. His continuation in both roles underscores the military’s focus on unified leadership in navigating the country’s complex security environment.
