ASEAN Foreign Ministers Urge Immediate End to Middle East War

ASEAN foreign ministers have issued a unified call for an immediate halt to the ongoing Middle East war.

“ASEAN ministers urge halt to Middle East war as crisis rattles energy and trade Foreign and economic ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday called for an immediate halt to the war in the Middle East, and said the effects of surging oil prices and disrupted trade are already hitting Southeast Asia's economies, AzerNEWS reports, citing Tribune”

AzerNews

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations expressed grave concern over the deteriorating situation in the Middle East.

AzerNews

This urgent appeal comes as the Philippines, which chairs ASEAN this year, convened special meetings.

The ministers collectively emphasized the importance of immediate cessation of hostilities.

They called on all parties involved to exercise the utmost restraint to prevent further destabilization.

The economic fallout from the Middle East conflict is already severely impacting Southeast Asian economies.

Crude oil is trading near $100 per barrel due to supply concerns and Iran's vow to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed.

Pakistan Today

ASEAN ministers warned that surging oil prices and disrupted trade routes are creating significant challenges.

Several ASEAN members have begun implementing emergency measures to counter these economic impacts.

These include energy conservation programs and protection of vulnerable sectors like tourism.

ASEAN ministers have identified the region's vulnerability to disruptions in global oil and LNG supply routes.

“ASEAN foreign and economic ministers on Friday called for an immediate halt to the war in the Middle East and said the effects of surging oil prices and disrupted trade are already hitting Southeast Asia's economies”

The Business Standard

The bloc's economic ministers warned that Southeast Asian countries face heightened risks from further shocks.

They emphasized that reinforcing supply chain resilience would be essential for economic stability.

The ministers also called for accelerating renewable energy transitions and deepening regional cooperation.

They noted that prolonged instability could further undermine economic growth across the region.

ASEAN has activated regional mechanisms and called for international community support to de-escalate tensions.

The Philippines, as current ASEAN chair, has taken a leading role in convening special meetings.

AzerNews

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro indicated the country was considering buying oil from Russia.

ASEAN emphasized assisting nationals in affected areas and strengthening energy cooperation initiatives.

The bloc reiterated its commitment to promoting peace and stability both regionally and globally.