Rising tensions between Iran and the United States are prompting ASEAN to accelerate efforts to strengthen regional security cooperation, according to senior Indonesian diplomat Hassan Wirajuda.
The push for deeper defense integration comes as geopolitical friction in the Middle East intensifies, creating a ripple effect on global security architectures.
Wirajuda highlighted that the escalating diplomatic standoff is providing fresh momentum for Southeast Asian nations to consolidate their collective security posture.
The association is seeking to bolster its capacity to manage external shocks and maintain stability in its own region amid broader global uncertainty.
This development follows a period of significant market volatility linked to Middle East risks.
Global financial markets had surged earlier in the week after reports of a mutual understanding agreement between Washington and Tehran, which temporarily lowered the immediate risk of conflict.