US Assures ASEAN of Support Despite Iran War Fallout

A former top US diplomat says America remains a dependable ally for Southeast Asia, despite economic pain caused by its war with Iran. Ambassador Daniel Kritenbrink acknowledged the conflict triggered a severe energy crisis. It damaged the economies of Southeast Asian nations that import oil from the Middle East. Kritenbrink served as the US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. He insisted the United States will stay central to the region's trade and security for years to come. The statement is a direct reassurance to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The bloc includes several energy-importing countries hit by market instability following the US attack on Iran.