ASEAN voices concern over Middle East escalation

JAKARTA, March 4, 2026 (KPT) – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has expressed “serious concern” over the escalating conflict in the Middle East following recent attacks involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.

In a statement issued on March 4, ASEAN said it was closely monitoring developments after Israel and the US launched strikes against Iran on February 28. Tehran responded with retaliatory attacks targeting several countries in the region, including Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates.

ASEAN warned that the escalation “poses a grave threat to the lives and safety of civilians, as well as to regional and global peace and stability.” The bloc urged all parties to respect international law, including the United Nations Charter.

The statement noted that the timing of the escalation was “particularly regrettable,” as it coincided with ongoing diplomatic efforts, including mediation initiatives led by Oman aimed at reaching a negotiated solution.

Separately, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on February 28 calling on all sides to exercise “maximum restraint” following the joint Israeli–U.S. strikes against Iran. Phnom Penh said it was monitoring the situation with “deep concern.”

“We call on all parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation that would harm civilian lives and undermine peace,” the ministry said.

Officials added that no Cambodian nationals had been reported injured, but urged citizens living in the region to remain vigilant and take extra precautions for their safety.