The Philippines on Friday has called on concerned countries to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East after Israel’s airstrikes on Iran.

Israel on Friday said that it struck Iran, and Iranian media said explosions were heard in Tehran as tensions mounted over US efforts to win Iran’s agreement to halt production of material for an atomic bomb.

Israel said it was declaring a state of emergency in anticipation of a missile and drone strike by Tehran.

Iran has been reported to have said that Israel’s airstrikes on its military and nuclear facilities were a “declaration of war” and called on the UN Security Council to act.

“The Philippines is gravely concerned over heightened tensions in the Middle East region following Israel’s airstrikes on Iran,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

“With the welfare of the people of the Middle East and the Filipinos there in mind, the Philippines urges concerned countries to de-escalate and follow the path of peace,” it added.

The Philippine government said that it has yet to receive reports of any Filipinos hurt. 

“The Philippine embassies in the region stand ready to assist Filipinos in their jurisdictions. So far, the DFA has not received reports of any Filipino hurt, injured, or otherwise affected as a result of the operations,” the DFA said. 

The Philippine Embassy in Israel earlier advised Filipinos to keep themselves safe at home after the IDF Home Front Command announced that Israel is under essential activity status from 3 a.m. on June 13 until 8 p.m. on June 14.

Under essential activity status, classes are suspended throughout Israel, any forms of gatherings are prohibited, and work is also suspended except for those providing essential services.

The embassy also advised Filipinos in Israel to contact its emergency hotline: +972 54-4661188 for urgent concerns. –NB, GMA Integrated News