ITUC-Asia Pacific denounces the recent military strikes by the United States and Israel and expressed deep alarm at the escalating military confrontation in Iran and across the Middle East, warning of severe humanitarian consequences and the risk of further destabilisation in an already fragile region.
Recent attacks and retaliatory actions have resulted in civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure, and growing insecurity. Workers, their families, and local communities are once again bearing the heaviest burden of violence and geopolitical confrontation.
“The labour movement cannot remain silent while workers and civilians face the devastating impacts of armed conflict. Human life, civilian populations, and essential public services must never be endangered by military escalation. Schools, hospitals, and vital infrastructure must be protected in full accordance with international humanitarian law,” Shoya Yoshida, General secretary of ITUC-Asia Pacific, said.
ITUC-Asia Pacific called for an immediate ceasefire and urgent steps to halt the ongoing military escalation in Iran and across the Middle East, urging all parties to exercise restraint and prioritise diplomacy and dialogue.
“Sustainable peace cannot be achieved through force,” Shoya Yoshida stated. “It requires political solutions grounded in respect for international law, human rights, and the principles of multilateral cooperation.”
The regional trade union organisation also highlighted the urgent need to protect the millions of Asian migrant workers employed throughout the Middle East. Workers from the Philippines, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian countries as well as India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka contribute significantly to the economies and essential services of the region but often find themselves among the most vulnerable in times of crisis.
Many migrant workers face restricted mobility, limited access to information, and precarious legal status. In situations of armed conflict, these conditions can place their safety and wellbeing at serious risk.
ITUC-Asia Pacific called on governments in both sending and receiving countries, together with employers, to take immediate measures to ensure the protection, safety, and, where necessary, safe evacuation of migrant workers. Their rights, wages, and access to consular support and basic services must be fully guaranteed.
“The labour movement has always stood for peace. War destroys livelihoods, undermines development, and deepens social injustice. Lasting peace is inseparable from social justice, decent work, and respect for human dignity,” Shoya Yoshida emphasised.
ITUC-Asia Pacific also expressed solidarity with workers and trade unions across the Middle East who continue to defend peace, democracy, and the rights of working people under extremely difficult circumstances. It also calls for:
“The ITUC Asia Pacific will continue to raise its voice for peace because workers everywhere deserve to live and work in safety, dignity, and freedom from violence,” Shoya Yoshida maintained.
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