Kuala lumpur: The ASEAN foreign ministers expressed grave concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, urging all parties to resolve differences through diplomacy and dialogue in the interest of maintaining peace and stability. In a joint communique issued at the end of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting here, the ministers condemned all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, which have resulted in the alarming number of casualties, particularly among women and children.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministers emphasized the continued restricted access to humanitarian aid and relief supplies, which has further deteriorated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They urged all relevant parties to accept the ceasefire proposal outlined in paragraph two of UN Security Council Resolution 2735. The communique called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages, emphasizing the importance of release from any arbitrary detention.
The 58th AMM and related meetings, held from July 8 under Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship themed 'Inclusivity and Sustainability,' concluded today. The ministers urged all ASEAN Member States and external partners to continue providing and facilitating humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza. They reaffirmed their support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in executing its mandate.
The communique called for the resumption of rapid, safe, unimpeded, and sustained humanitarian access to all those in need, including increased capacity at border crossings. It urged all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and abide by international humanitarian and human rights laws. The ministers also reaffirmed their longstanding support for the Palestinian people's inalienable rights, including their rights to self-determination and to their homeland.
In this regard, they urged all parties to redouble efforts towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict, aiming for a two-State solution in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council and United Nations General Assembly resolutions. This includes support for UNGA Resolutions A/RES/ES-10/23 and A/RES/ES-10/27, which focus on the admission of new UN members and the protection of civilians, respectively, both of which received unanimous support.