Southeast Asian Bloc Demands End to “Genocide” in Gaza

Southeast Asian Bloc Demands End to “Genocide” in Gaza
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The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday vehemently called for an end to what it termed the “genocide of Palestinians” by an “emboldened” Israel, Anadolu Agency reported. Speaking at the 15th East Asia Summit of Foreign Ministers, Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, on behalf of the bloc, stated, “The longest conflict of modern history, rooted in the unjust and illegal occupation of the Palestinian Territory, must be brought to an end.”

Hasan stressed that “eighty years of impunity have emboldened Israel to the extent of openly committing genocide, including through mass starvation that includes babies and children.” He asserted, “This is unacceptable. It must not be allowed to continue. It must stop.” ASEAN affirmed its support for all peace initiatives in the Middle East and Ukraine.

This condemnation comes as the Israeli army has killed nearly 57,800 Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023, predominantly women and children. The relentless bombardment has devastated the enclave, causing severe food shortages and disease.

Meanwhile, Israel reportedly plans to maintain military forces near Rafah to construct a large displacement camp and is insisting on keeping a presence north of the Philadelphi Corridor. Despite months of ground offensives, Israeli military officers acknowledge persistent Hamas resistance, admitting they have “failed” to establish full control over Gaza.

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza, where Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice. Ceasefire talks are currently ongoing in Doha.