Philippine Embassy Plans Repatriation of Filipinos in Israel Amid Conflict
The Philippine Embassy in Israel is actively planning the repatriation of Filipinos in Israel by land or sea, as airspace over Israel and Jordan remains closed due to ongoing regional conflict involving Iran. Philippine Ambassador in Tel Aviv Aileen Mendiola-Rau shared this update, emphasizing the urgency of safe evacuation routes.
In an interview, the ambassador explained that since flights cannot depart from Israel or Jordan, the embassy is exploring alternative ways to bring Filipinos home safely. “So we’re looking at other possibilities in case lumala pa ang sitwasyon,” she said. “We’re coming up with plans to bring our people out, not by air but probably by land towards Jordan or Egypt. Iko-consider din natin ang repatriation by sea.”
Embassy’s Crisis Management and Safety Measures
Since the recent escalation, with Israel launching attacks against Iran, the embassy has established a crisis management team. The group is reviewing contingency plans and continuously monitoring the developing situation to protect Filipinos in the area.
The embassy has also issued advisories urging Filipinos to follow IDF Home Front Command’s security guidelines and remain vigilant. “The safety and well-being of Filipinos in Israel remain the Embassy’s top priority,” the statement read, noting that Ambassador Mendiola is personally overseeing coordination efforts with Israeli and Philippine authorities.
Preparedness for Possible Evacuation
To prepare for a potential evacuation, the embassy has procured essential supplies to be stationed in various locations across Israel. It has also confirmed the status of shelters and renewed agreements with facility operators to ensure Filipinos have access to safe refuge if the conflict intensifies.
The embassy’s proactive steps come amid a tense backdrop of missile exchanges between Israel and Iran. The conflict escalated after Israel’s strike on Iran’s Natanz nuclear site, which reportedly killed top Iranian military leaders. Iran responded with airstrikes targeting Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Regional Tensions and Implications
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the attacks as necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned Israel’s actions as a “declaration of war,” with Iranian officials warning that no place in Israel will remain safe.
Moreover, Iran’s alliances with militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah add further complexity to the conflict. Both groups have suffered heavy losses in recent Israeli operations.
The embassy’s efforts underscore the seriousness of the situation and its commitment to safeguarding Filipino nationals amid these volatile developments.
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