Kuala Lumpur: The bloc of Southeast Asian nations has called on Israel and Iran to adhere to the ceasefire that was put in place following a 12-day aerial conflict between the two Middle Eastern countries.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) welcomed the ceasefire, which was announced by US President Donald Trump. The ASEAN foreign ministers expressed their concerns about the rising tensions in the region, particularly following US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites amidst the conflict between Tel Aviv and Tehran.

The ASEAN foreign ministers issued a joint statement urging all parties to respect the ceasefire and to avoid any further escalation of the conflict. They emphasized ASEAN's support for all efforts aimed at reducing tensions. The bloc reiterated the importance of resolving differences through peaceful means and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

The conflict saw Israel launching airstrikes on various sites across Iran on June 13, targeting military and nuclear facilities. Israel alleged that Iran was close to producing a nuclear bomb, a claim Iran has denied. The airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 606 people and injured 5,332 others. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone strikes, causing 28 fatalities and wounding 3,238 individuals. The US further escalated the situation by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday.

The conflict persisted for 12 days before a ceasefire was announced by President Trump late Monday, and it appears to be holding for now.