Will the war on Iran affect ASEAN’s efforts to tackle regional issues?
Renewed fighting between the US and Iran has overshadowed the ASEAN gathering in Manila.

Renewed fighting between the US and Iran has overshadowed the ASEAN gathering in Manila.






![East Timor's President Jose Ramos-Horta at the Presidential Palace in Dili, East Timor [Al MC/Al Jazeera]](https://aljazeeranews-mggx1uo47w.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Ramos-Horta-resize-1765583177.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)

As US President Donald Trump retreats on climate, Southeast Asia must lead where the US won’t.

The Trump Administration hails the US President’s five-day, three nation Asia tour as a success.
China and the 11-member regional bloc sign an upgraded version of their free trade pact, as both weather US tariffs.
Trump oversees the peace deal and trade agreements in visit to Malaysia – but what is in the pact on the border dispute?
Trump’s deals with Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia do not address transshipment and semiconductor tariffs.
Both countries’ negotiating teams will start working ‘immediately’ to address US tariffs and sanctions, says Lula.

The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia have expanded a ceasefire deal in the presence of US President Donald Trump.

This is the moment East Timor was officially declared ASEAN’s 11th member.

US President Donald Trump broke into dance with local performers as he arrived in Malaysia for the ASEAN summit.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao hails membership as beginning of an ‘inspiring new chapter’ for Asia’s youngest nation.