ASEAN Urges Permanent Resolution to US-Iran Conflict Amid Energy Crisis

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has officially called for a permanent end to the conflict between the United States and Iran, urging both powers to honor a fragile ceasefire and return to the negotiating table. The plea comes as Southeast Asian economies grapple with a severe energy crisis triggered by the fallout of the war.

A Fragile Ceasefire and the Push for Peace

On April 13, 2026, ASEAN foreign ministers issued a joint statement welcoming a two-week ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was announced on April 8, 2026. However, the bloc emphasized that a temporary pause is not enough to ensure regional or global stability.

The foreign ministers urged both nations to continue negotiations to achieve a “permanent end of the conflict” and establish lasting peace. This call for diplomacy follows several rounds of talks held in the Pakistani capital on April 11, where the Iranian delegation was led by Parliament members ([TASS](https://tass.com/world/2116211)).

Key Demands from ASEAN

• Utmost Restraint: The bloc stressed that both parties must act responsibly to avoid any actions that could aggravate the current situation.
• Maritime Security: ASEAN called for the restoration of safe, unimpeded and continuous transit passage in the Strait of Hormuz, citing the 1982 UNCLOS and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
• Freedom of Navigation: The statement highlighted the demand to ensure the safety of non-combatant vessels and aircraft.

The Economic Toll: Energy Crisis in Southeast Asia

The conflict has had a direct and damaging impact on Southeast Asia’s energy-importing economies. According to Ambassador Daniel Kritenbrink, a former assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, the U.S. War on Iran has triggered the worst energy crisis in recent memory ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3349533/us-remain-key-ally-asean-despite-iran-war-fallout-diplomat)).

The economic fallout includes:

• Price Spikes: Oil prices soared above US$100 a barrel for several weeks.
• Supply Disruptions: ASEAN’s call for a resolution specifically mentions the need to minimize disruptions to the flow of energy and essential goods to protect global economic stability.
• Ongoing Volatility: Kritenbrink warned that the economic pain is “far from over” and may worsen before it improves.

Geopolitical Implications: The US-ASEAN Relationship

Despite the economic strain caused by the Trump administration’s attacks on Iran, analysts suggest that the strategic bond between the U.S. And Southeast Asia remains intact. Ambassador Kritenbrink noted that the U.S. Continues to have “extraordinary” influence in the region due to deep-rooted trade and security ties ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3349533/us-remain-key-ally-asean-despite-iran-war-fallout-diplomat)).

There are currently few indications that Southeast Asian nations will shift their alignment toward China as a result of the current volatility in U.S. Trade and security policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the US-Iran ceasefire begin?

The two-week ceasefire was announced on April 8, 2026.

Why is ASEAN concerned about the Strait of Hormuz?

The Strait is critical for the transit of energy and essential goods. ASEAN is calling for the restoration of unimpeded navigation to stabilize the global economy and ensure the safety of seafarers.

How has the conflict affected energy prices?

The conflict led to a significant spike in energy costs, with oil prices exceeding US$100 per barrel for several weeks, creating a severe crisis for energy-importing nations in Southeast Asia.