Philippines Monitors Heightened Regional Tensions in Middle East

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines is intensively monitoring the escalating tensions in Israel, Lebanon, and Iran following the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, heightening concerns over a potential regional conflict.

According to Philippines News Agency, the situation intensified after Tehran and Hamas accused Israel of orchestrating the assassination last Wednesday, an allegation Israel has neither confirmed nor denied. The subsequent threat of retaliation by Iran has escalated fears of a broader conflict involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah in Lebanon, prompting several nations to advise their citizens to depart Lebanon. In response, the Philippines raised its alert level in Lebanon to Level 3, advising Filipino nationals to consider evacuation.

Undersecretary for Migration Eduardo Jose de Vega emphasized the ongoing efforts to protect Filipinos abroad, stating that the DFA is closely monitoring developments to promptly inform and assist the Filipino community. Despite the increased risks, many Filipinos in Lebanon have chosen to stay, with the Philippine government facilitating the repatriation of some, while others await clearance. De Vega highlighted that the community in Israel remains relatively stable, with no current plans to elevate crisis alert levels or indications of a mass desire to return to the Philippines.

The UN has also voiced serious concerns about the situation, with the High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk calling for urgent de-escalation and prioritizing civilian protection amidst the crisis. The plea underscores the grave impact of the conflict on civilians, particularly women and children, over the past 10 months.