07/01/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/30/2026 23:01
The current war in the Middle East, which was instigated by the United States and the military activities of Israel against Iran on 28 February 2026[1], has had severe implications for global energy supply. This war has caused a break in the world energy markets and generated uncertainties in supply chains. In the case of Southeast Asia, this crisis is especially severe due to its high reliance on imported energy. The ASEAN states have been paying close attention to these developments. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers Special Meeting was held on 13 March 2026. In their Joint Statement, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers expressed serious concern over the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, warning that it continues to heighten tensions and poses a grave threat to the lives and safety of civilians, as well as to regional and global peace and stability. [2] This is indicative of the urgency of the situation and its larger implications on economic and human security.