ASEAN leaders renounce intensifying war between Israel and Hamas

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations gather anew Tuesday afternoon for the traditional family photo marking the retreat session of the 43rd ASEAN Summit at Jakarta Convention Center in Indonesia. (Photo dated September 5, 2023 from PPA)

MANILA, Philippines — Member-states of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) condemned the escalation of conflict amid rising tension between Israel and Hamas.

In a statement, ASEAN Foreign Ministers said they are gravely anxious about the recent aggravation of armed conflicts in Middle East.

“We urge for the immediate end of violence to avoid further human casualties and call for the full respect of International Humanitarian Law,” said the foreign ministers.

“We call on all parties to create safe, rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian corridors,” they asked.

“We strongly condemn the acts of violence which have led to the deaths and injury of civilians, including ASEAN nationals,” they stressed.

The foreign ministers renewed their support for a two-state negotiated solution that allows both Israelis and Palestinians to live side-by-side in peace and security.

According to them, this is the only “viable path” to resolving the war.

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