ASEAN leaders back Trump's Gaza plan, push for durable peace

Southeast Asian nations have united in support of US President Donald Trump's proposed roadmap for Gaza, marking a significant regional endorsement during the ASEAN-US summit hosted in Malaysia's capital. The collective backing emerged as leaders from the 11-member bloc gathered for high-level discussions aimed at addressing wars.

ASEAN Chair Expresses Confidence

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, serving as current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, directly addressed President Trump during the Kuala Lumpur proceedings. "We welcome your comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict," stated the 78-year-old leader, emphasizing that the proposal offers "a glimmer of hope" for resolving even the most intractable disputes through determined diplomacy. Ibrahim specifically noted the region's trust that American leadership could facilitate a lasting resolution to the ongoing violence.

Ceasefire Framework Details

The US-mediated agreement, which initially took effect in October, outlines a phased approach to de-escalating hostilities between Hamas and Israel. The initial phase involves prisoner exchanges and partial Israeli military withdrawals from Gaza territory. Subsequent stages envision reconstruction efforts and establishment of new governance mechanisms that exclude Hamas participation. The ceasefire had previously been broken by Israel in March following an earlier January agreement.

Regional Peace Model Extended

The Malaysian leader drew parallels between the Gaza situation and recent successful diplomacy within Southeast Asia, specifically referencing the peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand. Ibrahim characterized the ASEAN region as an emerging "bridge for peace" demonstrating how moderation and dialogue can resolve entrenched disputes. He stressed the importance of extending similar peace-building approaches to other conflict zones, particularly the genocidal war in Gaza, to restore justice and humanitarian principles to global governance.