Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday stated that leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are advocating for the immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East, emphasizing that peace is the essential first step toward resolving the escalating conflict.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos addressed the press after the 48th ASEAN Summit, highlighting that ASEAN foreign ministers had issued a statement urging all parties to stop hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and pursue a lasting diplomatic solution involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. He emphasized the necessity for peace as a prerequisite to achieving any resolution, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the conflict and ASEAN's concern over potential renewed fighting.

Marcos noted the difficulty of the situation, stressing that without an end to the fighting and bombings, finding a solution remains challenging. This sentiment underscores ASEAN's call for an immediate end to hostilities.

Additionally, Southeast Asian leaders adopted the ASEAN Leaders' Statement on the Response to the Middle East Crisis, expressing serious concern over the rapidly evolving conflict and its implications on regional trade, energy security, and the welfare of ASEAN nationals. The statement urged all involved parties to maintain restraint and avoid actions that could exacerbate tensions, while continuing negotiations for a lasting peaceful resolution.

ASEAN leaders reiterated the importance of maintaining safe and unimpeded passage through international waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, amid disruptions affecting global energy and trade flows.