The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has issued a declaration welcoming the ceasefire reached between Israel and the radical Palestinian group “Hamas“ in the Gaza Strip, BTA reports.
The bloc, chaired by Malaysia, stresses the need for the full and strict implementation of the agreement, concluded after an intense military conflict.
The ceasefire, which came into effect on Sunday, was agreed after heavy clashes that began on October 7, 2023 with a surprise attack by “Hamas“ on Israeli territory.
ASEAN Priorities: Hostages and Humanitarian Assistance
The ASEAN declaration pays special attention to the release of all hostages held by “Hamas“, as well as Palestinian prisoners in Israel. Malaysia, which holds the presidency of the bloc, is calling for:
“Full, secure, rapid and transparent delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians.“
The priority of deliveries is to reach the areas most affected by the conflict, which are suffering from severe shortages of basic goods.
The grave consequences of the conflict
The beginning of the conflict was marked by an attack by “Hamas“, in which, according to Israeli figures, nearly 1,200 people were killed and about 250 hostages were taken.
In the subsequent Israeli offensive, losses among the Palestinian population reached 47,000 people, according to figures from the “Hamas“ Ministry of Health.
These numbers highlight the scale of the crisis and the need for international efforts to alleviate the humanitarian situation and establishing long-term peace in the region.