ASEAN urges restraint, welcomes Israel-Iran ceasefire
At A Glance
- The bloc likewise expressed its backing for global initiatives to reduce hostilities.
Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have welcomed the June 24 ceasefire between Israel and Iran and called on all parties to respect the truce to avoid further escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
AP, ASEAN photos
“We urge all parties to respect the ceasefire and avoid further escalation of this conflict,” the ASEAN statement read, citing the tensions that began on June 13.
The joint statement, released on Thursday evening, June 26, under Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, reflected the regional bloc’s concern over the worsening situation and its support for peace efforts in the region.
The 10-member bloc reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and the protection of national sovereignty.
“We reaffirm the obligation of all States to resolve their differences through peaceful means and to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations,” the foreign ministers said, adding that all actions must remain in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.
The bloc likewise expressed its backing for global initiatives to reduce hostilities.
“We support ongoing efforts, including those led by the UN, aimed at deescalating tensions and facilitating the resumption of constructive engagement among parties involved,” it said.
Aid for ASEAN nationals in crisis
The ASEAN foreign ministers also reiterated the need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure during armed conflict in line with international humanitarian law and UN Security Council resolutions. They further committed to helping citizens affected by the crisis.
They cited the bloc’s existing guidelines on consular support and emergency assistance, vowing to coordinate efforts to aid ASEAN nationals through embassies and missions in third countries, consistent with agreements under the ASEAN Declaration.
The Middle East crisis has triggered emergency responses from various governments, including the Philippines, which has raised alert levels and begun repatriating its citizens from Israel and Iran amid safety concerns.