ASEAN Chairs Urge Uphold International Law Amid Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

Ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, ASEAN leaders, led by Malaysia as the current chair, have called for upholding international humanitarian law in Gaza amid the ongoing crisis. Malaysia's Foreign Affairs Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized that ASEAN must collectively and firmly defend international law, condemning the Israeli blockade and bombardment that have led to mass starvation and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations. ASEAN Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo reiterated the bloc's clear support for respecting international law and humanitarian needs in Gaza and Palestine. Both Hasan and Manalo criticized the erosion of international law and the double standards seen in the handling of the Gaza crisis, urging ASEAN to use its global voice to advocate for the oppressed. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with UN agencies warning of worsening famine conditions due to the Israeli blockade since March. The 46th ASEAN Summit and related meetings aim to address these political and security challenges while advancing ASEAN-GCC cooperation across various sectors.