ASEAN Urges Reopening of Strait of Hormuz Amid Middle East Conflict Concerns

CEBU, Philippines, May 9, 2026 (KPT) — Southeast Asian leaders voiced “serious concern” Saturday over the escalating conflict in the Middle East and urged the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that prolonged disruption could threaten global energy supplies and regional stability.

In a joint statement issued after the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations welcomed the Pakistan‑mediated ceasefire between the United States and Iran and called for its full implementation.

Leaders urged all sides to “cease hostilities” and avoid actions that could worsen tensions, stressing the need for diplomacy and dialogue to achieve “a complete and immediate cessation of hostilities across all fronts in the Middle East.”

The bloc underscored respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law, while warning against measures that could obstruct freedom of navigation through international waterways.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who chaired the summit, said parties involved in the conflict must work to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent further disruption to global trade and fuel supplies.

“The call essentially is: Peace now,” Marcos told reporters, noting uncertainty over whether the ceasefire would hold amid fighting involving the United States, Israel, Iran and Hezbollah.

ASEAN discussions focused heavily on the economic and security impact of the crisis, particularly fears of oil supply shocks linked to instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for international shipments.

Marcos said member states were coordinating contingency measures to secure fuel supplies while pressing for a peaceful resolution, adding that meaningful diplomatic progress would remain elusive unless fighting stopped completely.