The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday said it is “gravely concerned over heightened tensions in the Middle East” after Israel launched airstrikes against Iran targeting its nuclear facilities.
In a statement, the DFA said its embassies in the region stand ready to assist Filipinos in their jurisdictions. No Filipino has been reported hurt, injured or affected yet as a result of the ongoing operations.
“With the welfare of the people of the Middle East and the Filipinos there in mind, the Philippines urges concerned countries to deescalate and follow the path of peace,” the DFA said.
Some sea-based Filipino workers currently navigating Middle Eastern territories confirmed their agencies had already issued instructions to return home amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
