PH urges diplomacy amid escalating Middle East conflict

Members of Israeli security forces work at an impact site following Iran’s strike on Israel, amid the Iran-Israel conflict, in Nes Ziona, Israel, June 22, 2025. —Reuters/Ammar Awad

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government on Sunday urged concerned parties in the Middle East to avoid the escalation of conflict, reiterating the need for a “peaceful and diplomatic solution” to the ongoing crisis.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) issued this statement after the United States joined Israel in its air campaign against Tehran in Iran. The DFA said that the country is “greatly concerned” of the recent developments in the Israel-Iran conflict.

“We strongly urge concerned parties to take the path of diplomacy and avoid further escalation of this conflict that could threaten regional and international peace and security,” the DFA said.

READ: Trump says Iran nuclear sites obliterated, threatens more strikes

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that the US air strikes had “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s key nuclear facilities. Trump also regarded the US air strikes as a “spectacular military success.”

Trump earlier announced that a US aircraft struck Iran’s Fordo nuclear enrichment plant and facilities in Natanz and Isfahan.

The DFA said that the Philippine Embassies in the region “stand ready to provide necessary assistance to Filipinos in their jurisdictions.”

READ: 26 repatriated Filipinos from Israel to arrive in PH on Tuesday — DMW

Department of Migrant Workers Sec. Hans Cacdac on Sunday said that 26 Filipinos who availed themselves of the voluntary repatriation program from Israel will arrive in the Philippines on Tuesday morning. The Philippine Embassy to Israel noted that 223 Filipinos already requested for repatriation.

The embassy also said that 311 Filipinos in Israel were given assistance including emergency financial aid, temporary shelter, and food and basic goods.

Cacdac also mentioned that the 26 Filipinos will receive P150,000 worth of financial assistance upon their return. He added the Department of Social Welfare and Development will also extend financial help while the Department of Health will provide post-arrival medical checkup. /cb