ASEAN foreign ministers have issued a statement welcoming the recent agreement between Hamas and Israel on the first phase of the United States’ plan to end hostilities in Gaza.
The move follows the Gaza peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh on 14 October 2025, where mediators and leaders signed off on a framework intended to lead to a lasting ceasefire.
In their joint communiqué, the ministers praised the US President Donald J. Trump for steering the diplomatic initiative, and also acknowledged the mediation roles played by Egypt, Qatar and Turkey.
They characterised the agreement as a significant milestone towards halting violence, alleviating human suffering and enabling the release of hostages.
The statement also emphasises the importance of Israeli forces withdrawing fully, reconstruction of Gaza, and upholding the rights of the Palestinian people to statehood and self-determination.
ASEAN called on all involved parties to honour the agreed terms and urged prompt, faithful implementation.
The ministers appealed to the international community to capitalise on the momentum, by pushing the peace process forward on the basis of a two-State solution consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
The statement further underscored the need for a permanent ceasefire and for humanitarian aid to be delivered immediately, safely and without obstruction.
ASEAN also reaffirmed support for UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestine refugees, and insisted that reconstruction in Gaza commence swiftly to restore dignity to affected citizens.
The agreement in Sharm el-Sheikh comes after both Israel and Hamas endorsed the first phase of the U.S. plan, which includes a ceasefire and a hostage-prisoner exchange.
Reuters reported that mediators Egypt, Qatar and Turkey formally signed the agreement alongside President Trump during the summit.
Still, the deal leaves key issues unresolved, including the disarmament of Hamas and the long-term governance structure of Gaza.
Critics highlight the ambiguity on those fronts, even as the first phase has been applauded as a diplomatic breakthrough.
