ASEAN leaders meet in Philippines to address challenges from Iran war, Hormuz crisis
Southeast Asian leaders gathered in the Philippines to discuss challenges arising from the US-Israel war with Iran, as the host nation renewed calls for an end to hostilities and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. ASEAN expressed "serious concern" over the escalation of conflict.
Leaders of Southeast Asian nations gathered in the Philippines on Friday to discuss challenges arising from the US-Israel war with Iran, as the host nation renewed calls for an end to hostilities in the Middle East and the safe, unimpeded passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. "We stand together today to demonstrate ASEAN's capacity to respond with unity, with wisdom, with resolve, at a time when our region is once again faced with profound uncertainty," Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. told leaders during the 48th ASEAN summit in Cebu.
Regional impact
"For we meet at a time of considerable challenge. Across our region and beyond, nations continue to navigate an increasingly complex global environment," Marcos said. "The increasingly volatile situation in the Middle East has impacted our region, challenging us to remain agile in the face of uncertainties which threaten lifestyles, livelihoods, and lives."
ASEAN's position
Marcos said ASEAN has expressed "serious concern" over the escalation of conflict due to the preemptive attacks initiated by Israel and the US against Iran on Feb. 28, and subsequent retaliatory attacks by Iran. "These developments have disrupted maritime and air transport routes, heightened risks to merchant and non-combatant vessels and aircraft, and affected the flow of energy and essential goods."
Advertisement
Call for action
Marcos called for "immediate cessation of hostilities, peaceful settlement of disputes, protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure as well as restoration of safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage in the Strait of Hormuz." "For ASEAN, these challenges are deeply felt by our people – through higher living costs, supply disruptions, threatened livelihoods, economic strain, and growing vulnerability."
Energy context
Before the war erupted, around 80% of the crude oil that passed through the Strait of Hormuz was destined for Asian markets, with China, India and Japan being the main importers, according to the International Energy Agency.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.