Philippines Calls for Diplomacy Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

MANILA – The Philippine government has expressed significant concern regarding the recent surge in tensions in the Middle East, particularly following U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. In an official statement released on Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) urged all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy over military action to avert further escalation of the conflict, which poses a threat to both regional and international peace and security.

The DFA emphasized, "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." This statement reflects the Philippines' ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of its nationals in the region, particularly as approximately 2.2 million Filipinos work across various Middle Eastern countries, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain.

Among the Filipino diaspora, there are approximately 30,000 individuals in Israel, most of whom are employed in caregiving and domestic service sectors, while around 1,180 Filipinos reside in Iran, many married to local nationals. In light of the escalating conflict, the Philippine government raised Alert Level 3 (voluntary repatriation) for its citizens in Israel and Iran, advising them to take necessary precautions and to seek repatriation assistance if needed.

The DFA reiterated, "The welfare and safety of Filipinos in the region are of primordial concern, and the Philippine government will relentlessly continue to advance and prioritize their protection."

The call for restraint comes as tensions between the U.S. and Iran have intensified following the airstrikes, with U.S. President Donald Trump warning of further military action if Iran does not pursue peace. Iran has condemned the U.S. strikes, labeling them as an act of aggression and asserting its right to defend itself, indicating that it reserves "all options" in response to the perceived threat.

As the Israel-Iran conflict enters its second week of reciprocal attacks, the situation remains precarious. Experts warn that the potential for broader regional conflict looms large, with repercussions that could extend beyond the immediate area. According to Dr. Ahmad Rezaei, an expert in Middle Eastern studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, "The current climate of hostility and military engagement increases the risk of miscalculations that could lead to a wider war involving multiple nations."

The Philippine government’s proactive stance highlights its diplomatic efforts to mitigate the impact of escalating tensions on its citizens abroad. The DFA's continued emphasis on peaceful resolution underscores its commitment to global stability and the protection of its nationals in volatile regions. As diplomatic channels remain open, the Philippines advocates for comprehensive dialogues to resolve the underlying issues contributing to the ongoing strife in the Middle East.

In conclusion, as the situation develops, the implications for Filipino workers and their families both at home and abroad remain profound. The government’s efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens reflect a broader commitment to international peace and security, emphasizing the necessity of diplomacy in resolving conflicts that threaten regional stability.