In response to heightened tensions in the Middle East, ASEAN foreign ministers convened an online meeting on the 13th, led by the chair country, the Philippines. Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo emphasized the need for all parties involved to exercise the utmost restraint and to seek resolution through respect for international law. He expressed serious concerns regarding the ongoing retaliatory actions between the U.S. and Israel against Iran and Iran's subsequent responses, highlighting the precariousness of the situation. During the meeting, the impact of the Middle East tensions on energy supply chains was a significant topic of discussion. The ASEAN ministers agreed to harness their cooperative framework to mutually support each other in oil and energy supplies within the region. Minister Manalo also addressed the large number of ASEAN citizens residing as migrant workers in the Middle East, stressing the importance of sharing information among member countries to ensure their protection and safety. Concurrently, an economic ministers' meeting was held in Manila, where a joint statement outlined that the worsening situation in the Middle East could hinder ASEAN's economic development. The ministers underscored the urgent need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and diversify energy supply chains to mitigate potential disruptions in the future.