Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have jointly issued a call for restraint in the South China Sea and a ceasefire in Gaza. The statement comes amidst escalating tensions in both regions, with concerns over maritime disputes and violence in the Middle East.
The South China Sea has been a hotbed of territorial disputes involving multiple countries, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Australia and ASEAN emphasized the importance of upholding international law and ensuring freedom of navigation in the region.